Recent research published in ‘Applied Sciences’ sheds light on the future of medium-duty road freight transport, focusing on battery electric trucks (BETs) and fuel cell trucks (FCETs). Conducted by Manfred Dollinger from the Center of Energy Technology (ZET) at the University of Bayreuth, the study provides critical insights into the consumption and greenhouse gas emissions of these emerging technologies, projecting their performance into 2050.
As the European Union pushes for emission-free vehicles by 2035, the pressure on the freight transport sector is mounting. Road transport accounted for a staggering 740 million tons of CO2 emissions in 2021, with freight transport contributing a significant portion. Dollinger emphasizes the urgency of the situation, stating, “The transformation of medium and heavy road freight transport to new drive technologies represents a far greater challenge than is already the case for passenger vehicles and small trucks.”
The research involved a collaboration with a medium-sized forwarding company, where real-world transport data from diesel trucks were analyzed. Using a validated physical model, the study explored the energy consumption and emissions of BETs and FCETs, revealing that by 2050, BETs could consume only a third of the energy and emit just a fifth of the greenhouse gases compared to current CNG combustion technology. Conversely, FCETs, while less efficient, could still achieve significant reductions, consuming 40% of the energy and emitting a third of the GHGs of existing fossil fuel technologies.
Dollinger’s work highlights the importance of understanding the implications of vehicle weight and drivetrain efficiency. “The high weight of the battery increases consumption, especially in hilly terrains and in the city, and thus limits the driving range,” he explains. This finding is particularly relevant for logistics companies that need reliable and efficient transport solutions.
The study also underscores the necessity for robust infrastructure to support the transition to electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles. Questions remain about the availability of charging and hydrogen refueling stations, as well as the costs associated with these technologies. Dollinger points out, “What does the infrastructure need to look like to enable economical transportation?” This inquiry is crucial for stakeholders in the energy sector, as it directly impacts investment strategies and the potential for widespread adoption of cleaner technologies.
The research not only provides a roadmap for the future of freight transport but also emphasizes the commercial implications for energy providers. As the demand for renewable energy sources grows, companies that can effectively supply charging infrastructure and hydrogen fuel may find themselves at the forefront of a rapidly evolving market.
With the findings of this study, the path toward a more sustainable freight transport sector appears clearer, though challenges remain. As the industry grapples with the transition, the insights offered by Dollinger and his team may serve as a vital resource for policymakers and businesses alike, paving the way for innovation and growth in the energy sector.
For more information, you can explore the work of Manfred Dollinger at the Center of Energy Technology (lead_author_affiliation).