Seven trucking decarbonization projects awarded NRCan funding

The urgency for sustainable transportation solutions is more pressing than ever. As governments and industries around the globe seek to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, innovative projects are emerging to transform the trucking sector. Recently, Canada unveiled a significant investment aimed at decarbonizing its medium- and heavy-duty vehicle (MHDV) fleet, paving the way for a greener future.

On July 30, the Canadian government announced a funding initiative exceeding $21 million dedicated to clean technology projects designed to mitigate emissions from MHDVs across the nation. This initiative, part of Natural Resources Canada’s Energy Innovation Program, specifically targets the decarbonization of on-road transportation.

Investment in Clean Technology for Trucking

The funding announcement was made by Evan Solomon, the Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation. The initiative encompasses nine different research, development, and demonstration projects under the On-Road Transportation Decarbonization stream. Out of these, seven projects—totaling nearly $19 million—are focused on enhancing the sustainability of trucking operations through innovative technology.

This strategic investment aims to:

• Improve energy efficiency across trucking operations.
• Facilitate the development of infrastructure necessary for electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles.
• Strengthen supply chains while supporting Canada’s transition to low- and zero-emission powertrains.

An additional separate investment of nearly $5 million will go towards converting the City of Toronto’s fleet of 60 compressed natural gas (CNG) refuse trucks to a hybrid-electric CNG system, highlighting the multifaceted approach to reducing transportation emissions.

Key Projects Receiving Funding

Among the notable projects receiving financial support, several stand out due to their innovative approaches to decarbonization:

• Effenco: Based in Vaughan, Ontario, this Martinrea subsidiary has been awarded $5 million to develop a cutting-edge zero-emission powertrain and charging system for electric MHDVs. This project addresses critical issues such as the cost of vehicle acquisition and limitations related to battery weight and size.
• AlumaPower: This initiative will receive $5 million to test an aluminum-fueled galvanic generator aimed at powering EV charging stations, including the Urban Quick Stop operated by Purolator in Mississauga, Ontario.
• Betterfrost Technologies: Awarded nearly $4 million, this Oakville-based company is working to demonstrate a low-energy defrost system that can significantly reduce the startup time for electric trucks from 20-25 minutes to just one minute.
• Elemental Trucks: This Toronto company secured $1.5 million to enhance a 63.5-tonne hydrogen truck, aiming to improve both cost and performance standards in the heavy-duty segment.
• Inmotive: Also receiving $1.5 million, Inmotive will develop an innovative transmission system designed to extend the range of electric MHDVs without increasing battery size.

Additionally, Alectra Utilities is spearheading two important initiatives:

• AlectraDrive for Fleets: This project received just over $1 million to investigate controlled charging and discharging of MHDVs. This innovative approach will contribute to grid efficiency and improve peak-demand management.
• Energizing the Future With V2X: Awarded $900,000, this initiative will pilot bi-directional charging capabilities for light- and medium-duty vehicles, promoting strategic fleet dispatch to alleviate electricity demand in high-consumption areas.

Supporting Sustainable Transportation in Urban Areas

In synergy with the above projects, the City of Toronto is making strides under the Green Freight Program. A significant investment of $4.97 million will fund the conversion of its CNG waste collection vehicles to operate on a hybrid electric-CNG system. This initiative is intended to create a quieter, more fuel-efficient fleet with reduced emissions.

“These 60 municipal waste trucks serve as testaments to innovation: quieter on our streets, lighter on fuel, and lower on emissions,” remarked Solomon, underscoring the importance of local solutions. “We’re enabling homegrown breakthroughs that are enhancing electric vehicle performance, safety, and reliability in uniquely Canadian conditions.”

Anticipated Impact on Emissions Reduction

These innovative projects are expected to facilitate significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions from the MHDV sector. The Canadian government is committed to fostering an environment where local innovators can thrive and commercialize emerging technologies that contribute to clean, sustainable transportation.

Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, emphasized the importance of these initiatives, stating, “Through these projects, Canadian innovators are creating and commercializing the emerging technologies we need for clean, sustainable transportation for our future. We’re investing in Canadian ideas to accelerate emissions reductions from medium- and heavy-duty vehicles, which strengthens our supply chains and energy independence.”

As the trucking industry moves toward a greener future, projects like these will play a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of emissions reduction, demonstrating that innovation in clean technology is not just a necessity but also an opportunity for economic growth and environmental stewardship.

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