Key recommendations for financing Zero-Emission Trucks

Overview of the Recommendations

The 15 recommendations proposed by the study are designed to tackle various facets of the financing landscape, from enhancing public intervention to diversifying and improving access to finance. These recommendations emerge from a rigorous methodology that included desk research, stakeholder consultation, and a co-creation workshop. Here’s a closer look at some of the key recommendations:

1. Enhance Public Intervention: The report highlights the critical role of government support through subsidies, grants, and tax benefits. Such measures are deemed essential not only for bridging the cost disparity between ZETs and internal combustion engine trucks (ICETs) but also for instilling confidence in the sector. The suggestion includes harmonising incentives across EU Member States to foster a cohesive market environment.
2. Address Residual Value Uncertainties: A significant barrier to ZET adoption is the uncertainty around the residual value of these vehicles. The study advocates for the provision of government-supported residual value guarantees, which would provide security to fleet operators and financial institutions alike, encouraging more robust financing and leasing options.
3. Leverage Traditional Banking: Given the hesitancy of traditional financial institutions to engage with the evolving ZET market due to perceived risks, there is a call for technical assistance and capacity building to enhance understanding and trust in ZET technologies.
4. Diversify Financing Sources: Recognising the limitations of conventional banking in accommodating the specific needs of ZET financing, the recommendations suggest exploring alternative sources such as pension funds and private equity, which may offer more favourable terms due to their long-term investment horizons.
5. Develop Service-Based Models: To circumvent some of the traditional purchasing barriers, the report sees potential in service-based models like Battery-as-a-Service or Trucking-as-a-Service. These models can reduce upfront costs and align better with the operational cash flows of fleet operators.

Implementation and Impact

Each recommendation is mapped against its potential impact and stage of adoption, providing a strategic roadmap for stakeholders. The aim is to prioritise interventions that offer immediate benefits while planning for more significant, transformative changes that require sustained efforts and policy alignment.

Challenges and Opportunities

The transition to zero-emission road freight is fraught with challenges, primarily financial and technological. However, the opportunities—environmental sustainability, reduced operational costs, and alignment with global climate goals—far outweigh these hurdles. Implementing these recommendations could catalyse a significant shift towards cleaner transportation technologies.

Conclusion

The study by Ricardo, through its comprehensive analysis and targeted recommendations, provides a valuable blueprint for accelerating the adoption of zero-emission trucks. Policymakers, industry leaders, and financial institutions are encouraged to consider these insights to foster a sustainable and economically viable future for road freight transport. As the market for ZETs evolves, continued collaboration and adaptation of financing mechanisms will be crucial in realising the vision of a decarbonised road freight sector in Europe and beyond.

Source: Ricardo