Austroads: Transport Research and Trends

Australia’s freight industry is at a turning point. The transition to low and zero-emission heavy vehicles (ZEHVs) is critical to achieving net zero targets, but it presents significant challenges for road infrastructure. As these vehicles are often heavier than their diesel counterparts, they place additional strain on pavements and bridges—potentially increasing maintenance costs and accelerating road deterioration.

Australia has a long history of engineering cost-effective road networks, enabling an extensive transport system despite the country’s vast geography and relatively low population density. However, as transport emissions come under greater scrutiny, government and industry leaders must navigate complex trade-offs between sustainability, infrastructure resilience, and freight efficiency.

The report, Zero Emission Heavy Vehicles and Road Pavements: Comparing Australia and New Zealand to Europe and North America, explores these challenges and outlines potential pathways for government and industry to support the decarbonisation of heavy transport while ensuring Australia’s road network remains functional and cost-effective.