Powering freight
The Powering freight: Dynamics of transport & energy project develops a System Dynamics model to analyse interdependencies between electric road freight and the evolving low-carbon electricity system, identifying bottlenecks and leverage points to guide coordinated policy and investment decisions for achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Project description
The electrification of road freight transport is essential for achieving climate neutrality, yet its success depends on the simultaneous transformation of the electricity system. Current decision-making often treats transport and energy systems separately, risking bottlenecks, delayed investments, and inefficient policy design. This project addresses this challenge by developing a System Dynamics (SD) model that captures the feedback loops and interdependencies between electric heavy truck adoption, charging infrastructure deployment, grid capacity expansion, and electricity production. Using a participatory modelling approach involving industry, policymakers, and researchers, the project builds a validated simulation model to explore long-term transition pathways toward net-zero emissions by 2050. Scenario and sensitivity analyses identify critical leverage points and investment timing strategies. The results provide strategic decision support for coordinated infrastructure planning and policy design, contributing to a more resilient and efficient electrification of freight transport.
