In a historic move aimed at revolutionizing the transportation sector, the Biden-Harris istration has introduced the National Zero-Emission Freight Corridor Strategy. Crafted collaboratively by the t Office of Energy and Transportation, the US Department of Energy (DOE), the Department of Transportation (DOT), and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), this strategy outlines a roap for the deployment of zero-emission medium- and heavy-duty vehicle (ZE-MHDV) charging and hydrogen fueling infrastructure from 2024 to 2040. 2z1z1m

The strategy is poised to capitalize on the burgeoning market demand for sustainable transport solutions. By strategically targeting public investment to complement private sector initiatives, streamlining utility and regulatory energy planning, fostering industry alignment, and ameliorating air quality in communities burdened by diesel emissions, the initiative aims for comprehensive transformation.

US Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm emphasized the urgent need for such initiatives, stating, "For over a century, petroleum-fueled freight has been the lifeline for American families, but it has also exacted a toll on public health, particularly in densely populated areas."

In the same vein, Ali Zaidi, President Biden's National Climate Advisor, underscored the istration's commitment to environmental justice, noting that heavy truck traffic disproportionately affects vulnerable communities. Zaidi hailed the strategy as a pivotal step towards cleaner air, substantial fuel cost savings for businesses, and crucial strides in climate action.

In addition, Senator Alex Padilla lauded the istration's holistic approach, emphasizing the importance of national coordination to accelerate the deployment of heavy-duty vehicle infrastructure and achieve ambitious emission reduction goals.

A central element of the strategy is the establishment of National Electric Vehicle Freight Corridors along key roadways, mandated by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. These corridors will form the backbone of a reliable and expansive EV charging network, bolstering both individual and commercial transportation needs.

Source: US Department of Energy

Shailen Bhatt, Federal Highway , highlighted the potential impact, stating, "Medium- and heavy-duty trucks currently contribute approximately 23% of greenhouse gas emissions in the US transportation sector. These designations and Strategy will help to grow our national EV charging network, encourage clean commerce within the freight community, and President Biden’s goals of achieving net-zero emissions for the nation by 2050."

Source: US Department of Energy

Under President Biden’s leadership, the number of publicly available EV chargers nationwide has increased by more than 80% to more than 173,000, and at least 40 US-based facilities to produce EV chargers have been announced or opened. President Biden’s Investing in America agenda has attracted more than $25 billion of investment in the US EV charging network. Today’s freight corridor designations are expected to crowd in even more investment for EV charging, with a particular focus on the needs of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles.

This all-encoming approach signifies a concerted effort to accelerate the deployment of reliable ZE-MHDV infrastructure nationwide. By prioritizing high-traffic freight corridors and key hubs in a phased manner, the strategy aims to establish a comprehensive network that ensures ubiquitous access to sustainable transport options by 2040.

With the unveiling of the National Zero-Emission Freight Corridor Strategy, the Biden-Harris istration sets a transformative course towards a cleaner, more resilient transportation future for all Americans.