Heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) contribute significantly to CO2 emissions in transportation, accounting for 27% of transport-related CO2 emissions in France, despite making up only 1.3% of the country's vehicle fleet. This discrepancy is due to their high fuel consumption and long-distance travel. The environmental impact of HGVs is substantial, and their electrification is seen as crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

One of the most popular options for reducing HGV emissions is the use of B100 biodiesel, produced from colza. This biodiesel can be used as a direct substitute for diesel and is eligible for the Crit’Air 1 sticker, which may become mandatory for access to low-emission zones (ZFE). Another option is the use of natural gas vehicles (NGVs), with biogas being an even more environmentally friendly alternative. However, these solutions require significant infrastructure investment and are more complex to implement compared to electric vehicles (EVs).

Electric trucks are currently the most environmentally friendly option, emitting no particulate matter or nitrogen oxides. While they do produce CO2 from electricity generation, this amount is significantly lower than that from diesel trucks—about 75% less. Electric trucks are particularly suitable for urban areas where short-haul deliveries by smaller HGVs occur. As battery technology improves and economies of scale increase, the cost of electric trucks will likely decrease.

The French government has set ambitious targets for HGV electrification, with most truck manufacturers planning to sell at least 50% electric trucks by 2030. However, this transition faces several challenges. Firstly, there is a need to develop a robust supply chain and encourage investment in electric truck production. Regulatory measures such as Euro 7 emission standards and CO2 reduction targets will drive innovation in this sector.

Another key challenge is the deployment of charging infrastructure. Currently, France has only a few hundred charging stations for HGVs, each with three or four charging points. By 2035, it is estimated that there will be around 12,200 charging points across 519 service areas and rest stops. The cost of this infrastructure development is estimated at €630 million.

Economic barriers remain a significant obstacle to HGV electrification. The high initial cost of electric trucks makes them unaffordable for many operators. Public subsidies play a crucial role in facilitating this transition; programs like e-Trans by the Agence de la Transition Écologique (Ademe) provide financial support for purchasing electric trucks.

Innovative solutions such as electrified highways and retrofits also show promise in addressing some of these challenges. Electrified highways could reduce the need for frequent stops at charging stations by allowing trucks to recharge while driving. Retrofits involve converting older diesel trucks into electric ones through motor replacement, which can be economically viable in certain sectors like bus transportation.

To ensure a smooth transition towards electrified HGVs, policymakers must coordinate efforts across different sectors and avoid diluting resources among competing technologies like natural gas or hydrogen fuel cells. By addressing these challenges systematically and effectively, France can accelerate its move towards cleaner transportation solutions.