Back multi-fuel path to net zero, RHA urges government

By Carol Millett2026-07-27T11:14:00+01:00

The RHA has renewed its call for a technology-neutral approach to decarbonisation, warning that the majority of HGV operators have no plans to switch to zero-emission vehicles because of cost and operational constraints.

As the new government under Prime Minister Andy Burnham beds in, RHA MD Richard Smith said ministers must base decarbonisation policy on the realities facing operators rather than assuming battery-electric vehicles are the only solution.

According to RHA research, two-thirds of HGV operators have no plans to move to zero-emission vehicles, with vehicle costs and range limitations remaining the biggest barriers.

Smith said the findings reflected “operational reality” rather than resistance to decarbonisation.

“Our industry wants to decarbonise, but getting it right means starting from where operators actually are,” he said.

Smith pointed to the findings of RHA’s Net Zero Survey, Future of Fleets report and payload loss research, which found adoption rates vary significantly across different vehicle sectors.

While uptake remains limited among HGV fleets, the RHA said around two-fifths of van operators either already operate electric vehicles or plan to introduce them within the next 12 months, with larger fleets leading the transition.

He said: “A one size fits all approach won’t get us to where we need to be. Businesses need alternatives on the road to net zero.

“Our position remains consistent: maintaining current operational capacity will demand a multi-fuel approach.

“Transitional fuels, advanced engine technologies and hydrogen all have a part to play. This was never solely about battery electric vehicles.”

Smith said operators, manufacturers and supply chain partners were increasingly collaborating on practical decarbonisation solutions.

However, he warned: “Policy must follow suit - shaped by evidence, collaboration and real-world experience, so the industry can build a decarbonisation roadmap and timeline that are relevant, deliverable and achievable.

“This is the message we will take into every engagement with new ministers in the months ahead.”

Carol Millett

Carol Millett is an award-winning freelance journalist with over 30 years’ of experience writing across a broad range of sectors, including road transport, construction and civil engineering, project management, private finance, technology, HR, and travel and tourism.View full Profile

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