NSW Zero Emission Heavy Vehicle Access Trial – Supporting a sustainable freight future

As part of this commitment, Transport for NSW has introduced the NSW Zero Emission Heavy Vehicle Access Trial. This two-year initiative will provide heavy vehicle operators greater access to the state road network, making it easier for them to adopt zero emission technologies for freight transport.

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Freight truck travelling on Tourle Street Bridge, Mayfield West in NSW

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Removing barriers for zero emission vehicles

Zero emission heavy vehicles, such as electric or hydrogen-powered trucks, face challenges due to additional mass from battery or fuel cell systems. This can restrict access to certain parts of the road network, particularly where some infrastructure such as load-limited bridges or level crossings may not support their weight.  

The trial addresses this by granting expanded network access through exemptions while maintaining the safety of load-limited bridges and level crossings. These exceptions are determined through rigorous safety assessments to ensure the structural integrity of bridges and the safe operation of level crossings.

By improving access, the trial will also gather valuable data to guide future road access and management policies. This evidence-based approach will help NSW shape regulations that support the wider adoption of zero emission heavy vehicles.

A step towards a sustainable freight industry

The trial supports NSW’s broader goal of decarbonising the freight sector, as outlined in the Towards Net Zero Emissions Freight Policy. By enabling greater use of zero emission heavy vehicles across the road network, the trial supports the freight industry in adopting electrified technologies. 

By removing barriers to access and enabling the integration of these vehicles into the freight network, the trial demonstrates how practical solutions can drive meaningful change in the freight industry.

Collaboration for a cleaner future

The success of the trial relies on continued collaboration between government, industry and the community, with each stakeholder playing a critical role:

• government: Providing infrastructure, regulatory support, and funding to enable the trial, while ensuring road network access and compatibility
• industry: Testing zero emission vehicles, providing operational feedback and driving the transition to cleaner technologies
• community: Engaging in planning processes and advocating for sustainable freight solutions.

By working together, we can ensure the freight industry continues to meet the needs of NSW communities while reducing its environmental impact. The NSW Zero Emission Heavy Vehicle Access Trial is a key step towards a cleaner, more sustainable refight network and reinforces our commitment to innovation and climate action.