California’s Zero-Emission Truck Mandate: What It Means for the Future of Freight

California is once again leading the way in clean transportation policy. With its Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) rule and Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, the state is requiring that by 2035, at least 50% of all heavy-duty trucks sold must be zero-emission. This bold move signals a dramatic shift for the freight industry, one that will ripple through manufacturers, carriers, drivers, and supply chains nationwide.

Why California Is Pushing This

• Climate goals: Heavy duty trucks make up a small share of vehicles on the road but are responsible for a disproportionate share of greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution.

• Public health: Communities near freight corridors and ports often low-income and minority neighborhoods suffer from higher rates of asthma and other respiratory illnesses due to diesel exhaust.

• Technology momentum: With electric and hydrogen fuel cell trucks advancing rapidly, policymakers see an opportunity to accelerate adoption.

What the Mandate Requires

• 2035 Target: 50% of new heavy-duty truck sales must be zero emission.

• 2027–2032 EPA Standards: Complementary federal rules are pushing stricter emissions reductions across all states, amplifying California’s impact.

• Fleet Rules: Large fleets operating in the state will be required to start reporting and transitioning to cleaner options.

Opportunities for the Industry

• Innovation boom: OEMs (like Daimler, Volvo, and Tesla) are already scaling up production of battery electric and hydrogen Class 8 trucks.

• Infrastructure investment: Billions in funding are earmarked for charging and hydrogen refueling stations across California.

• Cost savings: While upfront costs are high, zero emission trucks have lower maintenance and fuel expenses, which could reduce lifetime operating costs.

Challenges Ahead

• Infrastructure gap: Charging and hydrogen fueling networks are still limited, particularly for long-haul routes.

• Vehicle costs: Zero emission trucks remain significantly more expensive than diesel models.

• Grid demand: California’s electric grid will need upgrades to handle widespread truck charging.

• Driver adoption: Operators are wary of range limitations and charging downtime, especially in high-pressure freight markets.

National Implications

Because California often sets trends in U.S. environmental regulation, other states are expected to follow. Already, over a dozen states have signed on to California’s Multi-State ZEV MOU, committing to similar targets. Trucking companies operating interstate will need to adapt, regardless of their home state.