Survey Says: Major Carriers See Diesel Continuing Dominance

A recent survey of for-hire motor carriers found that diesel will remain the primary fuel for the trucking industry in the foreseeable future. Despite shifting emissions policies and growing interest in alternative powertrains, carriers cited cost, range limitations, infrastructure gaps, and total ownership economics as key barriers to electric and hydrogen adoption. Renewable diesel and natural gas are seen as nearer-term options, with fleets expecting a gradual transition with stricter 2027 NOx rules and fuel volatility driving evaluation of multiple technologies. Prominent carriers, including Oak Harbor Freight Lines, C.R. England, and Gulf Winds International, shared their views on the future of diesel and alternative fuels, with many believing that diesel will remain the most prominent power source for years to come. The survey was part of Transport Topics’ annual survey of for-hire carriers for its Top 100 list.