Low-Cost Strategies to Cut Emissions in Heavy Vehicle Fleets

For many heavy vehicle operators, the path to net zero can seem like a steep climb. With limited policy support, long vehicle lifespans, and tight margins, decarbonisation often feels out of reach. But according to Mark Gjerek, Founder and Director at MOV3MENT, there are practical, cost-effective steps fleets can take right now to reduce emissions—without waiting for electric trucks to arrive.

In a recent episode of the Fleet News Group Podcast, Gjerek outlined why a broader approach is needed for Australia’s heavy vehicle sector. “Electrification isn’t the only path,” he said. “In fact, it’s often the most expensive way to decarbonise. There are efficiency measures that can deliver real savings now.”

Emissions Still Rising

Despite increased awareness and industry discussion, transport emissions in Australia are still going up. “Truck emissions will continue to rise well beyond 2030 unless something changes,” Gjerek warned. “We’ve got a growing freight task and not enough incentives or policy levers to support the transition.”

The challenge is compounded by the long life of trucks. “With an average age of 15 years, trucks being purchased today will still be on the road in 2040 and even 2050,” he said. That makes it essential to act now—on both the vehicles in operation and those being procured.

Where to Start: Fuel Efficiency

For most operators, the simplest place to begin is with fuel efficiency. “Every litre of fuel you burn releases emissions and costs money,” Gjerek explained. “If you can reduce consumption, you lower both your emissions and your operating costs.”

MOV3MENT has identified a range of efficiency measures that are low-cost and high-impact, including:

• Aerodynamic Improvements: “Trucks doing long-haul work at high speeds benefit from aero kits—roof deflectors, cab side extensions, trailer skirts,” said Gjerek. “These are common overseas but still underutilised in Australia.”
• Low Rolling Resistance Tyres: “They can deliver 2–5% fuel savings depending on conditions,” he said. Europe and the US use rating labels and standards to encourage uptake, but Australia lags behind.
• Idle Reduction: “Many trucks idle for 20–30% of their operating hours. Cutting that can shave a few percent off fuel bills—and the health benefits from reduced air pollution are a bonus.”
• Driver Behaviour: “Telematics, apps, and feedback systems all help,” said Gjerek. “Training combined with reinforcement can deliver 15–20% fuel savings. One fleet even shared the savings with drivers and achieved an extra 4%.”

The Need for a Strategy

Gjerek’s main advice to fleet operators is to start with a plan. “Understand your current fuel use. Which parts of the fleet use the most? What applications are most energy intensive?” he said.

He encouraged fleets to make use of Get Fleet Fit, a free toolkit developed in partnership with NatRoad. It includes resources on data analysis, fuel efficiency, and strategic planning.

“Whether you have two trucks or 200, the principles are the same. Start small, measure your impact, and build momentum,” Gjerek said.

Beyond Electrification: Renewable Diesel

While EVs will play a role in the future, Gjerek is also optimistic about renewable diesel. “It’s a drop-in fuel that can be used without engine modifications,” he explained. “The US is producing enough renewable diesel to power Australia’s entire truck fleet, but we’re not making it here yet.”

The infrastructure for renewable diesel is limited in Australia, but it remains a promising mid-term solution—especially as government policies and ARENA incentives aim to kickstart local production.

Collaboration is Critical

For any transition to succeed, collaboration will be essential. “We’ve seen overseas that when governments, shippers, fleets and suppliers work together, change happens faster,” said Gjerek.

He highlighted a project in Queensland involving the Port of Brisbane, Brisbane Airport, and freight operators planning for future infrastructure and zero-emission freight corridors. “It’s not just about the vehicles. It’s about certainty. When operators know the support is there, they can invest.”

Don’t Wait for the Perfect Moment

Gjerek had a final message for fleet managers under pressure to meet 2030 or 2035 emissions targets: start now. “You don’t need to wait for a new electric truck or a government grant,” he said. “There are things you can do today that reduce emissions, improve efficiency, and strengthen your bottom line.”

“The key is to build a plan, get buy-in across your business, and take those first steps.”

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For more insights, listen to the full interview with Mark Gjerek on the Fleet News Group Podcast – available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube. Season 4 is streaming in 2025.