With help from the U.S. Department of Energy, the hydrogen industry and truck makers are working to develop a hydrogen refueling infrastructure that can support fleet operations.

Hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles may be envisioned as the future workhorse of a decarbonized longhaul freight sector, but their development has proceeded at a measured pace.

Advanced researchers and engine makers say the internal combustion engine’s ability to be more efficient and run on greener fuels means an extended life.

Fleets are looking more to social media platforms to increase brand awareness, reach new customers and, increasingly, find new employees.

When trailer aerodynamics produce better fuel efficiency, the reward for truck fleets can be substantial, and success is measured by miles per gallon.

A timeline of landmark emission changes for U.S. heavy-duty trucks and engines since 2000. 

Class 8 truck production and sales increased in 2022 and won’t fall off a cliff in 2023, industry experts said, but 2023 still promises some uncertainty, of course.

SAN ANTONIO — As truck technologies and emissions systems continue to evolve and electric-powered trucks begin to hit the market, the knowledge and expertise required to service and maintain these vehicles is also shifting.

While truck manufacturers make advances in battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell technology, they also are making fuel efficiency and aerodynamic improvements to their diesel offerings that will form the backbone of the trucking industry for years to come.

Increasingly stringent emissions regulations over the past few decades have driven a steady cadence of changes to diesel engine architecture and heavy-duty truck design.