Carbon emissions from road freight are rising to the point where, by 2030, levels may well exceed those of passenger cars. We recommend policies that will help transition the heavy-duty auto sector to one that is emission-free. Through data-led analysis and sector-wide engagement, we find solutions that put fleet electrification within reach.
Transportation
We advocate for smart policies in the drive to a clean transportation future.
![Electric truck](/sites/default/files/styles/1000/public/node_images/transportation_0.png?itok=VuEyzN-3)
New policies could significantly reduce fleet emissions
Our recommendations would see commercial fleet emissions drop by up to 80% by 2050 relative to 2020 levels. (Pembina Institute modelling; see Canada’s Pathway to Net-Zero for Medium-and Heavy-Duty Trucks and Buses; Part 1: Zero-Emission Vehicles (2023))
Key numbers
Low-carbon fuel choices for road freight
Are low-carbon fuels a viable means of decarbonizing medium- and heavy-duty vehicles? If you’re a fleet owner or operator, here’s what you need to know.
Find out more.Research & Analysis
![Cover of Installing Chargers with underground garage and chargers](/sites/default/files/styles/sm_md/public/2024-07/EVs_in_MURBS_policy_cover.jpg?itok=m83wdBDS)
Installing chargers in apartments and condos
Policy pathways to make Alberta multi-unit residences EV-ready![Portrait of Jason Wang](/sites/default/files/styles/thumbnail/public/2024-05/jason-24.jpg?itok=wtMidJ1E)
![man using cargo van to deliver package](/sites/default/files/styles/sm_md/public/2024-07/man_using_cargo_van_to_deliver_package.jpg?itok=l9uDcSFe)
Going the distance
New project highlights the importance of an equitable transition to fleet electrification![Portrait of Sarah McBain](/sites/default/files/styles/thumbnail/public/2024-05/sarahmcb-24.jpg?itok=nf3BIhSZ)
![electric trucks lined up at a charging station](/sites/default/files/styles/sm_md/public/2024-07/electric_truck_charging_station.jpg?itok=pRcldw0b)
Charging solutions for electric fleets
Experts offer key insights on navigating the roadblocks to infrastructure![Ranking of climate policies from the ten provincial governments and federal government against our policy indicators](/sites/default/files/styles/sm_md/public/2024-07/Figure%201%20-%20all%20provinces.png?itok=-G0RU4nc)
Environmental checkup: reviewing governments’ clean-economy performance
As Canada’s environment ministers prepare to meet, we examined how their governments are performing on climate, energy, and preparedness for the clean economy.![Portrait of Sarah McBain](/sites/default/files/styles/thumbnail/public/2024-05/sarahmcb-24.jpg?itok=nf3BIhSZ)
Why work on transportation?
Carbon-free transportation tomorrow means that change needs to happen today.
Canada’s expansive network of roads and highways are full of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles, transporting freight from A to B. This sector of the auto industry has grown significantly over the last 20 years and is now the second largest source of carbon pollution.
Our Transportation program has been following the trend. Reducing emissions from Canada’s second-largest source of carbon pollution will not only reduce oil demand, it will also improve air quality and benefit human health.
![Row of electric semi trucks at charging stations for electric vehicles.](/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/2024-04/iStock-1406501364.jpg?itok=z_qMz0k9)
From policy to action
We push for strategies and policies that will make freight transportation emission-free. However, our work doesn’t end with a set of recommendations. Our team is solutions-oriented: implementation is our measure of success. We hold decision-making bodies to account and present solid analysis that will lead to a net-zero EV future.
Shifting away from emission-heavy vehicles requires knowledge sharing, raising awareness and behavioural change. That’s why we collaborate with governments, engage in stakeholder outreach, and establish industry partnerships. Bringing all parties to the table leads to meaningful changes on the ground.
![Freight forum](/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/2024-05/freight%20forum.jpg?itok=ZhzuiTvK)
Our research
Our research aims to accelerate this transition for the medium- and heavy-duty vehicle sector, and includes:
- Low-carbon fuels: Replacing combustion engine vehicles with battery-electric models is not a viable option for every kind of truck. As fleets transition to net-zero, the use of low-carbon fuels will decrease the sector’s carbon intensity.
- Community outreach: Raising awareness for small and under-resourced fleet operators so they can benefit from fleet electrification.
- Grid readiness: A successful transition to electrification requires sufficient charging and re-fuelling infrastructure, and an energy grid that can provide enough power to meet increased demand.
- Alternative transportation: In cities, the use of other modes of transportation (such as cargo e-bikes) can reduce air pollution and improve public health.
- Electric school buses: We are currently working with provinces across Canada to support the electrification of provincial school bus fleets.
![Child descending from electric school bus](/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/2024-05/electric%20bus.jpg?itok=PvbXYKpZ)
![Toronto street](/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/2024-05/urban-delivery-solutions-initiative.png?itok=eWZFGUZo)
This national network of businesses has come together to create and grow a low-carbon urban freight system. The coalition collectively employs more than 100,000 Canadians and operates more than 24,000 vehicles across the country, delivering goods to businesses and people.
![Adam Thon quote](/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/2024-05/Adam-Thorn-p-quote.png?itok=iBC4hXf4)
Contact our transportation team
![Transportation team 2024](/sites/default/files/styles/1000/public/2024-05/Transportation%20team%20Nov23.jpg?itok=58QQmZEz)
Program Director
Adam Thorn
c: 416-859-4108
e: adamt@pembina.org
Media Contact
Lejla Latifovic (Eastern Time)
c: 819-639-4185
e: lejlal@pembina.org
Get our Pembina Perspectives
Pembina Perspectives provides thoughtful, evidence-based research and analysis to support action on climate — in your inbox every two weeks.
We endeavour to protect your confidentiality; read our full privacy policy.
![Donate Background](/themes/pembina_2024/images/equitable-transition-donate.jpg)
Support clean energy transportation
Help Canada move towards a clean and equitable transportation system.