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Welcome to ZEV Help! Your Guide to Zero-Emission Commercial Vehicles

Bridge Technologies for Truck Fleets

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Not every route is ready for a zero-emission truck today. Many fleets are cutting emissions and fuel costs now with “bridge” technologies while battery-electric and hydrogen trucks mature. Here is how the main options compare.

The options at a glance

OptionHow it worksStrengthsWatch-outs
Renewable diesel (R99/R100)A drop-in fuel made from fats, oils, and waste feedstocks that is chemically similar to petroleum diesel.Works in existing diesel engines with no changes, and can cut lifecycle carbon emissions significantly.Supply is concentrated on the West Coast, and price depends on state low-carbon fuel credits.
Biodiesel blends (B5–B20)Diesel blended with fuel made from vegetable oils or animal fats.Widely available and approved by most engine makers at lower blends.Cold-weather handling and blend limits set by engine warranties.
Natural gas (CNG/LNG, including renewable natural gas)Spark-ignited engines such as the 15-liter Cummins X15N run on natural gas or renewable natural gas (RNG).Very low NOx. With RNG from landfills or farms, lifecycle carbon can be very low.Requires dedicated fueling stations, and tanks add weight and cost.
HybridsA diesel engine paired with an electric motor and battery.Better fuel economy in stop-and-go duty cycles without charging infrastructure.Fewer heavy-duty models available, and smaller savings on highway routes.
Efficiency upgradesAerodynamics, low-rolling-resistance tires, idle reduction, and driver coaching.Fast payback and works with any fuel.Savings are incremental rather than transformational.

How to choose

  • Long-haul, high-mileage routes: renewable diesel or natural gas with RNG offer the biggest near-term emissions cuts without range limits.
  • Urban stop-and-go routes: hybrids, or battery-electric trucks if you can charge at the depot.
  • Any fleet: efficiency upgrades and driver coaching pay off regardless of fuel.
  • Customer or contract requirements: if a shipper requires zero tailpipe emissions, only battery-electric or hydrogen will qualify.

Bridge fuels and zero-emission plans together

Bridge technologies and zero-emission trucks are not either/or. Many fleets run renewable diesel or natural gas on long-haul lanes while piloting battery-electric trucks on short, return-to-base routes. That approach builds experience with charging and electric drivetrains while cutting emissions across the whole fleet today.

See also: Technology Pathways · Operating Zero-Emission Trucks · Hydrogen Reality Check

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Last reviewed: October 2026