RHA submits response to HGV Emissions Consultation

Today we have submitted the Road Haulage Association (RHA)’s response to the Department for Transport Consultation on “New Heavy Goods Vehicle CO₂ Emissions Regulatory Framework for the United Kingdom”. The future environmental impact of our sector, and the alternative fuels used to power HGVs and coaches, is a crucial and defining question for the industry. We see this as the start of further conversations with the Government on how we can get a viable framework in place.

The phase-out dates for new diesel HGVs are ambitious. Just last week, our Leaders Forum explored the barriers to adopting alternative fuels, with cost and infrastructure being key concerns. Without additional resource from government to address these, there are significant risks to delivery. An additional message was a need for collaboration, education of each other’s needs and pragmatism to make decarbonisation work. The UK has just over 1,000 registered electric HGVs on the roads, which is hugely positive. But put into context that we have around 500,000 UK HGVs in total shows the scale of the challenge.

Different technologies work in different contexts, and we remain neutral on which alternative fuels are used. Progress can be made on short distance routes and journeys with lighter loads, but heavy loads and long-distance journeys remain a challenge.

Within the consultation, we support the proposal for increased manufacturer CO2 emissions targets to provide the flexible approach needed alongside targeted support. The goal, as we see it, is how the “addressable market” for zero emission vehicles can be developed to a position that regulation can then drive without imposing costs on to hard-pressed operators. We see proposals for a ZEV mandate for manufacturers or fleet adoption requirements as impractical without other enablers such as the infrastructure in place to power zero emission vehicles.

To secure progress, we need a partnership approach between government and industry. A national coordinating body, led by Government in partnership with industry, to co-ordinate the practical activities required by multiple agencies is needed to deliver HGV and coach decarbonisation.

In short, collaboration is key to delivering real change. The RHA is looking forward to being part of this mission.