Abstract for: Navigating the Freight Hauler's decision trade-offs to invest in Zero-emission Heavy-duty Trucks

Previous research in freight transportation considers the overview of multi-stakeholders and the effects of their decisions on a systemic level. However, the central aspect of how freight haulers undergo a sustainable transition towards electrification remains unanswered. This is based on parameters affecting the decision-making trade-offs that remain unanswered. A system thinking approach highlights the key dynamics between these parameters. This would intend to maintain the hauler’s profitability while transitioning. We started with semi-structured interviews and a literature review to understand the research niche and define the problem definition. A group model-building (GMB) session was held with researchers from academia and experts from industry. With the GMB, we mapped the operational, financial, and social parameters vital for the transition towards ZEVs and identified causal loops. The modeling team is currently working on a stock-flow model to calibrate the parameters. The interviews, literature review, and group modeling building have given parameters that should be considered important while transitioning to sustainable heavy-duty trucks. Out of them, the vehicle purchase cost, available driving range, vehicle utilization during the day, operational load-hauling capacity, and contractual payment type have a higher impact on the decision of haulers to invest in new zero-emission heavy-duty trucks. Most stakeholders within the transportation system highlight the need for supporting freight haulers. For example, the truck technology provider are still trying to find a suitable zero-emission solution (battery v/s fuel cell), which is linked to a lack of clear policies from policymakers. Some transport buyers are ready to pay more for the transport. However, the freight hauler hesitates investing in the new ZEV as it lacks a clear solution. For the literature review, and finding mathematical formulas