One-in-five operators are now either using alternative fuels already (13%) or plan to do so within the next 12 months, according to the latest research carried out by Motor Transport and sister title Commercial Motor.

This is more than twice as many that answered the same question one year ago, showing industry’s growing desire to decarbonise their fleet operations.

The ‘Hot Topic: Sector Insight 2022’ report asked readers which fuels they were interested in exploring, with electric and hydrogen topping the league for just over half of operators (53%), followed by one-quarter looking at LNG, and 18% interested in CNG and drop-in fuels such as HVO (hydro-treated vegetable oil).

When it comes to the perceived barriers putting operators off from trying alternative fuels and technology, concerns over a lack of refuelling infrastructure led the way (28%), closely followed by one-quarter of respondents lacking confidence in new technology or vehicles not providing sufficient range.

Upfront cost was perceived by our survey respondents as a much lower barrier with only 15% of operators citing this.

“With the government’s recent confirmation that no new diesel trucks will be sold by 2040, it is clear that operators are now starting to take the plunge when it comes to trying out new technology and fuels,” said MT events and projects editor Hayley Pink.

“Our ‘Hot Topic: Sector Insight 2022’ provides an interesting snapshot into our readers’ fleet decarbonisation journey, as well as exploring operator thoughts on a range of other topical issues that will impact their businesses during 2022.”

You can download the report free of charge, and also browse previous reader research on a wide range of topics, from camera technology through to the latest repair and maintenance trends.

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