Companies around the world are increasingly looking for ways to improve their energy efficiency to help them meet their sustainability targets. Now that energy prices are also rising rapidly, there is an even greater need for companies to control and reduce their energy consumption and costs.
The transportation of people and goods accounts for about 25% of the world’s energy consumption and almost 30% of global CO2 emissions, and heavy vehicles like trucks and busses are responsible for about one quarter of these emissions. In addition to the negative impact of CO2 emissions on the climate, diesel engines also emit other forms of pollution like NOx and particulates which can be harmful to health. As a result, pollution from diesel powered machines is often a particular problem in built-up areas and in enclosed working environments like underground mines. Due to these environmental and health concerns, many industries are already looking for ways to reduce emissions from heavy vehicles. Electrification is one way to achieve this goal.
The technology required for the electrification of heavy vehicles is well proven and growing in popularity. For example, in addition to trains, electrically powered public transport vehicles like busses and trolley-busses are becoming increasingly common. These have demonstrated improved energy efficiency and reduced urban emissions. Similar electric powertrain technology – specifically designed to handle harsh working conditions – is also available for trucks and heavy industrial vehicles, like excavators. These types of vehicles can use battery power or overhead catenary power lines, as well as hybrid diesel-electric systems. In addition, electric propulsion systems are also available for small to mid-size marine vessels, while for larger vessels, alternative fuels and power storage systems are under development for hybrid electrical propulsion.
Electric heavy vehicles are now a realistic and practical alternative. Read the white paper to find out more about e-mobility and how electrification can improve the efficiency of heavy vehicles, and reduce their emissions and operating costs.