Economists Push for Battery-Electric Trucks Over Hydrogen Alternatives

In a united front, economists from France and Germany have called for a cohesive strategy to decarbonize Europe’s trucking fleets, prioritizing fully electric trucks over hydrogen-powered alternatives.

This appeal comes as both nations, the largest economies in the EU, grapple with similar challenges in freight decarbonization, aggravated by their geographic proximity and significant cross-border trade.

Despite the EU’s ongoing struggles to curb emissions within the transport sector, road freight remains a key contributor to harmful carbon outputs due to its heavy reliance on diesel trucks.

France and Germany unite for fully electric trucking strategy in Europe

A recent study highlighted that the majority of freight transportation in Europe occurs over distances of less than 200 kilometers, leaving rail as a less viable option where trucking remains the primary mode of transport.

The French and German Council of Economic Experts asserted that policies should focus on battery-electric trucks (BET), citing them as the most mature and market-ready technology for freight transport. They recommended leveraging public funds to expedite the installation of fast-charging networks along crucial transport corridors and at private depots, signaling a clear roadmap for the transition to zero-emission logistics.

Executives at MAN Trucks shared skepticism regarding hydrogen’s competitiveness with battery-electric vehicles, with CEO Andreas Tostmann stating that hydrogen still requires significant development before it can compete effectively in the commercial vehicle market. Citing examples from industry leaders like Volvo, Renault, and Mercedes, the consensus appears to tip heavily in favor of electric trucks as the future of freight transport.

This collaborative effort between French and German economists underscores a pivotal moment in Europe’s drive toward sustainable transportation, aiming to lead the charge against climate change while addressing the logistical challenges inherent in regional trade.