Hydrogen Trucks and New Energy Trucks in Logistics Trunk Lines: Carbon Emission and Cost‒Benefit Analysis

Abstract

With the escalating environmental harm caused by carbon emissions from road diesel trucks and the global advancement of carbon reduction and carbon neutrality initiatives, enterprises and individuals are compelled to seek greener transportation alternatives. This study focuses on the application of new energy trucks and hydrogen trucks in logistics trunk lines, centering on their roles in reducing carbon emissions and lowering operating costs. By constructing mathematical models, it analyzes different road sections to select appropriate vehicle types and scheduling schemes, thereby optimizing the overall logistics and transportation system for enhanced economic and environmental benefits. The research findings indicate that new energy and hydrogen-powered trucks excel in carbon emission reduction; however, they currently confront challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, high hydrogen fuel costs, and other development constraints. Nevertheless, in the long term, new energy and hydrogen energy are expected to yield substantial economic and environmental benefits (Mao et al., 2022).