Heavy-duty vehicles are difficult to decarbonize, and the heaviest of heavy trucks – weighing between almost 53,000 and 63,500 kg – are especially challenging due to their high energy demands, small business ownership, and typically small profit margins. This report assesses the viability of emerging technology and fuel options, as well as the programs and regulations that support the decarbonization of the heaviest trucks in British Columbia and the transportation sector more broadly.

With the rise in urban delivery that sees more trucks on our streets, and the drive to lower greenhouse gas emissions in Canadian cities, we are outlining the actions city transportation managers in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area can take to help local businesses and delivery fleet operators make the switch from internal combustion engine vehicles to zero-emission vehicles.

As door-to-door deliveries increase in Canadian cities, a switch to electric vehicles is an important way that businesses, fleet operators and city planners can mitigate the impact of urban delivery emissions on climate change and air quality.

Freight trucks play a critical role in our society by ensuring the smooth and efficient movement of goods. However, it is critical that we decarbonize long-haul heavy-duty truck transport. 

To improve fuel efficiency and reduce transportation emissions, trucking fleets across Canada are outfitting their trailers with fuel-saving devices, such as aerodynamic add-ons or low rolling resistance tires. But how widely are fuel-saving devices adopted in the Canadian trucking industry? Consultation with the trucking sector revealed that adoption of most devices is low and that further supports are required.