As the UK strives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality, and meet ZEV mandate targets, the transportation sector is undergoing a significant transformation. For fleet managers and drivers of heavy-duty trucks, understanding and adopting alternative fuels is crucial for a better, greener future.
In this post, we’re going to discuss the various alternative fuels available for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) and what to consider when making your decision to switch.
What alternative fuels are there for heavy-duty trucks?
Thanks to modern technology and a drive for sustainable solutions, there are a number of innovative fuels and fuel systems available to truck drivers and fleet managers. Let’s get into the most popular:
Electricity
Probably the most popular alternative today, electric vehicles use electric motors powered by batteries, offering zero tailpipe emissions and reduced noise pollution. They are particularly ideal for urban deliveries and short-haul operations due to their current range limitations. There are many fantastic benefits to electric trucks, including being better for your health due to their reduced emissions and lower maintenance costs thanks to no standard engine work, oil changes, and spark plug, belt, and filter replacements.
Renault has been at the forefront of this technology, offering models like the Renault D and E-Tech D Wide, which are fully electric and cater to various applications and industries. In addition, the Isuzu NRR EV combines the Isuzu brand legacy of durability with modern electric technology, offering a versatile and efficient solution for those transitioning to sustainable transportation.
The UK’s Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate
In September 2023, the UK government introduced the Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate to accelerate the use of electric vehicles and other zero-emission technologies. The mandate lays out some ambitious targets for manufacturers, gradually increasing the number of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) they need to sell over the coming years.
By 2026, 24% of new vehicle sales must be electric, jumping to 70% by 2030 and hitting 100% by 2035. With these deadlines approaching fast, manufacturers and fleet operators need to start making the switch to greener alternatives.
2. Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO)
HVO is a renewable diesel alternative, synthesised from vegetable oils and animal fats. It significantly reduces CO₂ emissions and can be used as a direct replacement for conventional diesel without the need to change or modify existing engines. FedEx Express, for example, began using 100% HVO in its UK operations in October 2023, achieving lifecycle carbon emissions savings of at least 80% compared to traditional diesel.
As HVO is derived from renewable feedstocks that can be replenished continuously, like soybean oil, rapeseed oil, waste cooking oil and fat, it’s ideal for supporting a healthy environment for future generations. By switching to HVO, you lower your business’s reliance on finite fossil fuels, reducing your carbon footprint.
Both Renault and Isuzu trucks are compatible with HVO, offering fleet operators an immediate solution to reduce emissions.
3. Natural Gas (CNG/LNG)
Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) are fossil fuels that produce lower CO₂ emissions than diesel. CNG is made by compressing natural gas, while LNG is produced by purifying and supercooling natural gas to turn it into a liquid form.
These more eco-friendly alternatives are suitable for medium to long-haul operations and offer a balance between range and emission reductions. However, the availability of refuelling infrastructure in the UK is limited, which poses challenges for widespread use.
Renault Trucks has been offering CNG-powered vehicles for nearly two decades, with models like the D Wide CNG providing ranges of up to 800 kilometres/497 miles.
4. Biodiesel
Biodiesel is produced from renewable resources such as vegetable oils or animal fats and can be blended with conventional diesel. It offers a reduction in CO₂ emissions and can be used in existing diesel engines with very few modifications. Biodiesel is a popular fuel because of its ability to be added to standard diesel.
Though similar to HVO, there are some differences between these diesel alternatives: HVO is made through a hydrotreatment process, while biodiesel is made through transesterification. This gives them different chemical compositions, though both can be used as a more environmentally friendly diesel replacement.
Both Renault and Isuzu trucks can operate on biodiesel blends, offering flexibility for operators aiming to reduce their carbon footprint.
5. Hydrogen
Hydrogen fuel cells generate electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, emitting only simple water vapour. This technology offers much longer driving ranges and faster refuelling times compared to battery-electric vehicles, making it promising for the future of long-haul journeys.
However, the infrastructure for hydrogen refuelling is still not quite where we need it to be in the UK. The good news is that Aegis Energy has announced plans for five clean recharging and refuelling hubs to be built by the end of 2027 and 30 by the end of 2030. These stations will offer hydrogen refuelling, enabling businesses to seriously consider hydrogen vehicles without worrying about where they’ll recharge on long-haul operations.
While Renault and Isuzu have yet to release hydrogen-powered models in the UK, developments in this area are being closely monitored.
What should you consider before making a decision?
When considering all available alternative fuels to positively impact both our environment and your business’s carbon reduction goals, operators need to consider the following:
- Infrastructure: Without the infrastructure, there will be no refuelling or recharging your truck during long-haul operations. With hub networks like those designed by Aegis Energy on the horizon, we’re heading in the right direction, but the UK still has a way to go to leave businesses feeling 100% confident in operating on electricity, hydrogen, and natural gas.
- Operational requirements: The choice of fuel needs to align with the specific operational needs of the business, including range, duty cycles and load capacity. For example, electric trucks are ideal for urban deliveries, while hydrogen may be more suited for any long-haul routes.
- Total Cost of Ownership (TCO): Beyond the initial vehicle investment, operators should assess fuel costs, maintenance expenses, and potential incentives or subsidies. Electric vehicles, for instance, may have higher upfront costs than diesel engine vehicles but much lower operating costs in the long term.
- Environmental impact: Understanding the well-to-wheel emissions (a way of assessing the life cycle emissions of a fuel) of each fuel type is essential for making informed decisions that line up with your sustainability goals.
Making the switch
Shifting to alternative fuels for heavy-duty trucks is both an opportunity and a challenge. Manufacturers like Renault and Isuzu are actively developing and offering vehicles compatible with various alternative fuels, providing operators with multiple routes to reduce emissions, which we’re proud to sell here at Norfolk Truck & Van. However, the transition should always be considered carefully.
If you’re ready to switch to alternative fuels but don’t have the truck for the job, give us a call or have a look at our available vehicles. We’re a trusted, reputable truck dealership who stocks Renault and Isuzu trucks that can run on a number of alternative fuels, and we are more than happy to discuss any questions or requests you have.
For the Norfolk depot, call 01603 253 300. For the Suffolk depot, call 01473 834 200. For the London depot, call 0208 804 1266.