ATA calls for National Zero-Emission Truck Strategy

A framework to help guide the transition to clean, emissions-free commercial transport is urgently needed, with the Australian Trucking Association joining with the Electric Vehicle Council to call on the Federal Government to develop a National Zero Emission Truck Strategy.

Among the many points such a strategy should address, is a change in the regulations around width and axle mass limits to increase the supply of electric trucks to our shores, along with the implementation of purchase pricing incentives to encourage uptake.

The strategy should also encompass significant investment in recharging infrastructure for both battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell trucks, while the bodies are also calling on the Federal Government to sign the international memorandum of understanding concerning Australia’s commitment to the transition to zero-emission medium- and heavy-duty trucks.

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According to Samuel Marks, the ATA’s Sustainability and Future Transport Manager, there’s a pressing need to shift gears when it comes to transitioning to a sustainable transport network.

“Australia has a legislated net zero-emissions target but needs a strategy for zero-emissions trucks,” he said. “We need to move from one-off pilot projects to a strategy that enables all trucking operators to plan with certainty for low- and zero-emissions transport.

“Financial incentives in the United States mean that cost parity for urban electric trucks are already approaching cost parity with diesel trucks, and Australia now risks falling behind. Stronger action now to incentivise and enable trucking operators to deploy zero-emission trucks will enable industry to reduce carbon emissions whilst continuing to drive a growing economy.”

Meanwhile the Chief Executive of Australia’s Electric Vehicle Council, Behyad Jafari, said moving to clean transport would address a crucial vulnerability – Australia’s reliance on imported fossil fuels.

“Australia relies on trucks to function, but right now those trucks need imported oil to keep moving,” he said. “We don’t need to be this vulnerable, because our truck fleet can run on renewable energy we make domestically.

“We just need to get the policy settings right. With the EV and the trucking industry agreeing on these principles, the government can act swiftly.”

But it’s not just representative bodies calling for clear direction – the business sector also wants a roadmap to help guide the way.

Alexandra Kelly, Zero Emissions Delivery Lead for IKEA Australia, said the right policy setting would be crucial in supporting Australian businesses through this accelerating period of change.

“Freight is a big part of Australia’s decarbonisation journey with unique challenges,” she said. “It’s essential for this industry to have dedicated policy support that would enable retailers, vehicle manufacturers, transport service providers and owner-drivers to make the transition to zero emissions delivery.

“As the first home-furnishing retailer in Australia to use electric vehicles for deliveries with our transport service providers, we are committed to achieving 100 per cent zero-emissions delivery by 2025. But we cannot do it alone. More is needed to build confidence in the sector that now is the time to electrify.”