Majority of Diesel Trucks Achieve Near-Zero Emissions
The Diesel Technology Forum (DTF) has reported a notable 10.2% increase in the number of newly introduced near-zero-emissions diesel trucks on the roads between 2021 and 2022.
These trucks utilize advanced diesel technology and were manufactured from 2010 onwards.
According to an analysis conducted by the DTF using S&P Global Mobility TIPNet Vehicles in Operation Data as of December 2022, the trucking sector continues to be dominated by diesel, with a growing population of near-zero-emissions diesel trucks. Currently, these trucks account for 57% of all commercial diesel trucks (Class 3-8) on the roads. Equipped with particulate filters and selective catalytic reduction systems (SCR), they achieve near-zero levels of emissions. This represents a significant 10.2% increase in comparison to the previous year (2021).
The analysis reveals that 65.7% of all commercial diesel trucks (Class 3-8) currently in operation are 2007 models or newer. These trucks are equipped with particulate filters, allowing them to achieve near-zero emissions for particulates.
DTF Expresses Enthusiasm for Diesel’s Evolution and its Continued Dominance
Allen Schaeffer, Executive Director of the DTF, expressed his enthusiasm about the evolution of diesel technology and the positive impact it has had on air quality. In an interview with HDT Equipment Editor Jim Park for the HDT Talks Trucking video podcast, Schaeffer mentioned that nearly 7 million new-technology diesel trucks are actively delivering goods and services with near-zero emissions. He also highlighted the fact that for every electric commercial truck on the road, there are approximately 1,100 trucks powered by internal combustion engines.
The study conducted by the DTF further emphasized that internal combustion engines, including diesel, gasoline, natural gas, and propane, currently power approximately 99.9% of the nation’s trucking fleet.
Schaeffer emphasized that as the trucking industry explores alternative fuels such as all-electric and fuel cell technology, it is evident that diesel and other internal combustion engines will continue to play a dominant role for the foreseeable future.
Indiana Leading the Nation in Latest Clean Diesel Adoption
The analysis also provided rankings for states based on the percentage of registrations of 2010 and later model year near-zero emission diesel trucks. Indiana ranked first with the highest percentage (73.2%), followed by Utah (66.2%), Pennsylvania (66%), the District of Columbia (65.4%), Texas (63.6%), Oklahoma (62.6%), Florida (62.3%), Illinois (60.6%), Louisiana (59.2%) and Wisconsin (59.1%) among others. California, however, lagged behind the national average, ranking 35th with a percentage of 51.6%.
Despite this, California still has 125 times more new-generation advanced diesel trucks on the road compared to electric trucks.
Schaeffer acknowledged that California has been slower in adopting advanced diesel technology in recent years but recognized their progress in catching up. He mentioned that truckers in California often feel their businesses are under threat due to higher operating costs. Economic factors, regulatory uncertainty, and the prospect of transitioning to newer, more expensive, and complex trucks have hindered many fleets from investing in updated technology.
Progress in Diesel Innovations
Over the past decade, diesel technology has undergone significant transformations, achieving near-zero emissions starting from the 2010 model year. The continued dominance of diesel in the trucking industry reflects its continuous improvement, low-cost operation, and various advantages.
The next significant milestone for advanced diesel technology is set to emerge in California in 2024 and other parts of the country in 2027. This next generation of diesel engines aims to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by an additional 50-80% compared to current models.
According to the DTF, no other fuel currently matches the comprehensive benefits offered by the latest generation of diesel technology. It combines efficient performance, reliability, durability, low-cost operation, high market value for used products, maximum driving range, flexibility in utilization and routing, and readily available servicing, parts, and fueling across the nation.
Decarbonization Demands More Than Just ZEVs
Schaeffer emphasized that decarbonizing the economy will require diverse solutions for different sectors and that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. Alongside zero-emission vehicle approaches, accelerating the replacement of the existing fleet, continuous improvement of internal combustion engines, and the use of low-carbon renewable fuels are vital for achieving meaningful progress toward climate goals.
While acknowledging the potential of all-electric, zero-emission vehicles, Schaeffer urged not to discount the credibility of other solutions. He expressed excitement about the future and the forthcoming advancements in diesel engines, as well as other types of internal combustion engines like natural gas or renewable natural gas. Schaeffer also highlighted the versatility of renewable diesel fuel as a drop-in replacement. With numerous methods available to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and maintain a thriving economy, he believes waiting for unproven technologies is unnecessary.
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