Tractor energy type

Diesel (Internal Combustion Engine - ICE)

The dominant and mature technology for long-haul and heavy-duty transport. Modern diesel engines are highly efficient, powerful, and designed to meet strict emission standards (Euro VI, China VI). The focus is on improving thermal efficiency, reducing friction, and optimizing after-treatment systems.

• Status: Current industry standard.
• Advantages: High energy density, extensive refueling infrastructure, proven durability, high torque output, and long range.
• Challenges: Carbon emissions, dependency on fossil fuels, rising fuel costs, and increasingly complex emission controls.

Battery Electric (BEV)

Uses electricity stored in large onboard battery packs to power electric motors. It is the primary zero-tailpipe-emission solution for regional and urban logistics, with potential for long-haul as battery technology improves.

• Status: Rapidly growing in medium-duty/regional haul; long-haul prototypes and early deployments.
• Advantages: Zero local emissions, quiet operation, lower energy cost per mile, simplified drivetrain with fewer moving parts.
• Challenges: High upfront cost, limited range (vs. diesel), heavy battery weight, charging time and infrastructure availability for long-haul.

Fuel Cell Electric (FCEV)

Generates electricity on-board through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen in a fuel cell stack. The electricity then powers an electric motor. It is seen as a promising solution for long-haul, high-energy-demand applications where BEV limitations are acute.

• Status: Advanced prototype and early commercial deployment phase.
• Advantages: Zero tailpipe emissions (only water vapor), fast refueling (comparable to diesel), long range potential, lighter than equivalent-range BEVs.
• Challenges: Extremely high cost, underdeveloped hydrogen production and refueling infrastructure ("green" hydrogen is scarce), overall energy efficiency (well-to-wheel).

Natural Gas (CNG/LNG)

Uses compressed (CNG) or liquefied (LNG) natural gas as fuel in a modified internal combustion engine. It is a transitional "cleaner" fossil fuel option that offers reduced CO2 and near-zero particulate matter emissions compared to diesel.

• Status: Niche but established, especially in regions with low gas prices or strict local emission rules (e.g., ports).
• Advantages: Lower fuel cost (in some markets), quieter operation, lower CO2 and NOx emissions than diesel.
• Challenges: Lower energy density (reduced range, especially for CNG), methane slip (potent GHG), limited refueling infrastructure, dedicated storage tanks add weight and cost.

Brand Energy Portfolio Summary