Trucking forms the backbone of India's commercial transport infrastructure, moving goods across vast distances and connecting industries to markets. However, this sector is also a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, with heavy commercial vehicles (HCVs) accounting for a 40% of the road transport emissions. Decarbonizing trucking is therefore essential for India to meet its climate targets and promote sustainable development.
Current Scenario
The country has over 12 million registered trucks, which are integral to the logistics and supply chain networks. However, these trucks predominantly run on diesel, contributing to high levels of CO2 emissions and air pollutants. Globally, road freight transport is responsible for about 2.8 billion tonnes of CO2 emissions, nearly 9% of total global CO2 emissions. In India, the transport sector contributes around 10% of the country’s total CO2 emissions, approximately 300 million tonnes annually.
Key Statistics
- Freight Transport Emissions: In India, freight transport by road accounts for about 60% of the total logistics cost, highlighting the sector's economic importance and its environmental impact.
- Fuel Consumption: The average fuel efficiency of Indian trucks is significantly lower than global standards, with many trucks averaging only 3-4 kilometers per liter.
- Air Pollution: Diesel trucks emit large quantities of NOx, CO, and particulate matter, contributing to poor air quality in urban and rural areas alike.
Key Technology
Battery Electric Trucks (BETs)
- Technological Advancements: Advances in battery technology are improving the range and reducing the costs of BETs. Companies like Tata Motors and Ashok Leyland are developing electric trucks for the Indian market.
- Charging Solutions: Fast charging and battery swapping stations mitigate the issue of long charging times. Sun Mobility is working on battery swapping solutions for commercial vehicles in India.
Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Trucks (FCETs)
- Zero Emissions: Hydrogen fuel cells produce only water as a byproduct, making them a zero-emission solution. Reliance Industries is investing in hydrogen fuel cell technology for heavy vehicles.
- Refueling Infrastructure: Developing hydrogen refueling stations is crucial. Indian Oil Corporation is partnering with global firms to establish hydrogen refueling infrastructure.
Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Trucks
- Lower Emissions: LNG trucks emit less CO2 and pollutants compared to diesel trucks. Petronet LNG and Blue Energy Motors are promoting LNG trucks in India.
- Fueling Infrastructure: Expanding LNG fueling stations along major highways can support the adoption of LNG trucks.
Efficient Freight Management
- Digital Solutions: Implementing digital freight management systems optimize routes, reduce idle times, and improve fuel efficiency. Companies like Rivigo and BlackBuck are leading innovations in digital freight management in India.
- Load Optimization: Ensuring trucks are fully loaded for trips can reduce the number of trips required, lowering overall emissions.
Case Studies
- Tata Motors Electric Truck Development: Tata Motors is developing a range of electric trucks, including the Tata Ultra T.7, designed for urban freight transport. These trucks aim to reduce emissions and offer a sustainable alternative to diesel trucks.
- Reliance Industries Hydrogen Fuel Cell Initiative: Reliance Industries is investing in hydrogen fuel cell technology for heavy vehicles. The company is collaborating with global partners to develop hydrogen-powered trucks and the necessary refueling infrastructure.
- Rivigo’s Digital Freight Management: Rivigo has implemented a digital freight management system that optimizes routes and reduces idle times, improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions from trucks.
