Zero-Emission Heavy-Duty Trucks in Logistics: A Systematic Review and Analysis of Relevant Adoption Parameters

This study examines the challenges and potential solutions associated with the adoption of Zero-Emission Heavy-Duty Trucks in the automobile logistics sector in Europe. A comprehensive systematic literature review was conducted using a forward and backward research methodology to identify relevant parameters in the adoption process of Battery Electric Trucks and Hydrogen Fuel-Cell Electric Trucks. The analysis reveals a complex set of technological, operational, and infrastructural factors that currently affect the widespread implementation of Zero-Emission Heavy-Duty Trucks. Based on a structured, adapted PESTEL framework, which takes into account operational factors, a descriptive analysis categorizing these factors is presented. In addition, expert interviews were conducted to validate and enrich the completeness of the analysis and to attribute an importance scale to the different parameters. Through this approach, the paper improves the decision-making process in the adoption phase of Zero-Emission Heavy-Duty Trucks by ensuring that no essential aspect is overlooked. This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by presenting a comprehensive overview, providing clarity and transparency on the state-of-the-art in Zero-Emission Heavy-Duty Trucks adoption to assist researchers and practitioners in further endeavors. This information is then used to derive strategic measures addressed to stakeholders for exploiting the benefits of such vehicles and for conducting further applied research aimed at improving the adoption potential of these technologies throughout the industry.