In a significant move towards combatting climate change and promoting clean transportation, the Biden-Harris Administration has released the National Zero-Emission Freight Corridor Strategy. This landmark strategy, developed by the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), in collaboration with the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), aims to guide the deployment of zero-emission medium- and heavy-duty vehicle (ZE-MHDV) charging and hydrogen fueling infrastructure from 2024 to 2040.

Recognizing the detrimental impact of petroleum-fueled freight on public health and the environment, the administration seeks to transform the freight sector to better serve American families and businesses while also protecting future generations. The strategy will focus on amplifying private sector momentum through targeted public investment, aligning industry activity, and improving air quality in communities heavily affected by diesel emissions.

Energy Secretary Jennifer M. Granholm emphasized the urgent need for innovative strategies to address the negative consequences of petroleum-fueled freight, stating, "The Biden-Harris Administration is addressing this issue head-on with innovative strategies to transform freight so it not only supports American families and businesses but also protects the environment for future generations."

The strategy aligns with President Biden's clean transportation goal to decarbonize the freight sector, aiming to improve air quality, promote clean technology, and strengthen supply chains. It will prioritize infrastructure deployment along the National Highway Freight Network (NHFN) in four phases, taking into account the current and anticipated market demands for zero-emission medium- and heavy-duty vehicles.

Additionally, the Federal Highway Administration has designated National Electric Vehicle (EV) Freight Corridors along the NHFN and other key roadways, as required by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This critical step will contribute to the development of a reliable national EV charging network that supports both individual drivers and commercial needs, further bolstering the administration's efforts to build a sustainable transportation system.

By providing ubiquitous and convenient access to EV charging and hydrogen refueling stations along the nation's freight corridors, intermodal freight facilities, and high-usage ports, the strategy aims to promote the sale of at least 30% zero-emission medium- and heavy-duty vehicles by 2030 and achieve 100% sales by 2040.

The initiative will not only lead to significant cost savings for Americans through reduced fueling and maintenance expenses but also deliver substantial health benefits, particularly to historically disadvantaged communities that bear the brunt of freight emissions' pollution. Moreover, it represents a step towards achieving national climate goals and promoting environmental justice.

Since President Biden took office, the number of publicly available EV chargers has increased by over 80% to more than 173,000, with over $25 billion invested in the U.S. EV charging network. The administration's focus on attracting investment and addressing the needs of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles is expected to further accelerate the growth of the EV charging infrastructure.

The National Zero-Emission Freight Corridor Strategy takes a comprehensive approach, aligning investments, and expediting the deployment of reliable zero-emission medium- and heavy-duty vehicle infrastructure. With a particular emphasis on areas with high freight volume, the strategy aims to spark further private investment and set the nation on a path towards a greener and more sustainable future.

By prioritizing the transition to zero-emission freight transport, the Biden-Harris Administration is taking a significant step towards a cleaner, more resilient, and environmentally-friendly transportation system that benefits both communities and the economy.