Electrification of heavy transport: dream or reality in 2026?
Long considered a distant objective, theelectrification of heavy transport is now a strategic priority. Between regulatory changes, environmental pressures, technological innovations and operational limitations, where does the sector really stand in 2026? Let's take stock of concrete progress and persistent challenges.
Why electrify heavy transport?
Road freight transport represents a significant share of CO₂ emissions in Europe. To achieve the climate objectives set by the European Union and meet the demand of clients involved in CSR initiatives, electrification becomes essential.
Expected benefits:
- Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions
- Improving air quality, particularly in urban areas
- Reduction of noise pollution
A market in transition, not yet broken
In 2026, several signals show strong momentum:
- The first 100 % electric heavy goods vehicles are in circulation over short and medium distances (urban deliveries, logistics platforms).
- Major manufacturers (Volvo, Mercedes, Renault Trucks, Scania, etc.) are increasing their announcements of electric ranges.
- Public calls for tenders now include criteria for electrification in logistics.
But the massive shift has not yet taken place. The reasons are:
- High price of heavy electric vehicles
- Autonomy still limited (300 to 500 km maximum)
- Battery weight impacting payload
Need a fast charging network and structured at the national level
Electric, suitable for all uses?
Not yet. In 2026, electrification is mainly viable for regional or urban journeys.
For long distances (national or international transport), other solutions are still being studied or tested:
- THE biogas
- L'hydrogen (fuel cell)
- Synthetic fuels (e-fuels)
- Rail-road or river-road intermodality
Carriers must therefore make technological choices carefully. Many are adopting a mixed fleet strategy, gradually integrating electric trucks into compatible uses.
What role for territories and infrastructures?
The electrification of heavy transport cannot succeed without a massive infrastructure effort :
- Charging stations adapted to HGV sizes
- Multimodal stations for logistics companies
- Regional master plans to support carriers
THE local authorities play a central role in 2026: support for investment, support for logistics land, integration into ZFE.
Initiatives such as Plug & Go, France Logistique or the Positive Energy Territories strengthen the ecosystem.
The carrier faces the economic challenge
The electrification of heavy transport remains a profitability issue :
- The acquisition cost is still 40 to 100 % upper to an equivalent diesel model.
- Public aid (bonuses, super-depreciation, ADEME calls for projects) are essential to amortize the investment.
- THE TCO (total cost of ownership) becomes more competitive with the increase in the price of diesel and the tax advantages linked to ZFE.
The most advanced carriers are those that integrate the transition into their business proposition and their positioning with their customers.
Euromove 2026: transition in action
The living room Euromove devotes significant space to new engines, charging solutions and heavy electric vehicles.
👉 Electric truck demonstrations will take place on the test circuit.
👉 Some round tables will bring together carriers, manufacturers and communities to discuss obstacles, successes and prospects.
