Sustainable Freight Practices Compendium: What’s New

First introduced in 2014, ATRI’s Sustainable Freight Practices Compendium serves as a comprehensive reference for adopting greener freight operations. The latest updates cover three central areas:

• Driver: Actionable steps truckers can take to lower fuel use and support sustainability goals.
• Vehicle: Current data and solutions on vehicles and equipment that improve efficiency and cut emissions.
• Public Sector: How government measures—like congestion relief, new research, and incentive programs—further promote sustainable practices.

All three segments are now updated with fresh research and data, giving industry professionals direct paths to more sustainable operations.

The Idling Regulations Compendium: Staying Compliant

ATRI continues its decades-long effort to track and update information on idling rules for commercial vehicles. The compendium, free to access, compiles diverse state and local regulations that govern how long trucks may idle, helping carriers and drivers avoid compliance pitfalls.

ATRI continues to monitor the development of idling regulations across the country and provides the compendium as a free service to help trucking companies and truck drivers comply with the myriad state and local idling regulations.

Staying up to date with these rules not only helps fleets steer clear of fines but also supports environmental responsibility.

Access the Updated Compendiums

The latest Sustainable Freight Practices Compendium and Idling Regulations Compendium are available online:

• Sustainable Freight Practices Compendium
• Idling Regulations Compendium

These resources are designed to make compliance and sustainability clear and simple for industry professionals.

With these newly updated compendiums, ATRI reinforces its commitment to helping trucking companies and drivers meet changing environmental expectations while ensuring ongoing compliance and operational success.

Source: Truckers News

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Highway Transport has been named the very first recipient of the Responsible Care® Partner Sustainability Award, a new honor from the American Chemistry Council (ACC). The recognition was announced during the 2025 ACC Responsible Care & Sustainability Conference held in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

The award highlights Highway Transport’s leadership in environmental sustainability and its commitment to cleaner, more responsible chemical logistics. This marks a major milestone not just for the Knoxville-based tanker company, but for the broader transportation sector that supports the chemical industry.

Why Highway Transport Was Chosen

The ACC launched the Partner Sustainability Award in 2025 to spotlight partner companies that go above and beyond in their sustainability efforts. Highway Transport stood out for its comprehensive and science-based environmental initiatives under its Green Treads program.

The company’s efforts include:

• Advanced emissions monitoring and transparent reporting aligned with scientific standards
• Collaboration with Net Zero and Salesforce for environmental data tracking
• Adoption of idle-reduction technologies across its fleet
• Installation of electric HVAC systems (EPU units with lithium batteries) to eliminate engine idling during rest periods
• Company-wide sustainability training programs for drivers and staff
• Emissions reduction strategies aimed at a 70% cut at service center locations
• Participation in the EPA’s SmartWay Transport Partnership
• Long-standing engagement with the ACC’s Responsible Care® program

These initiatives collectively reflect a company-wide shift toward sustainability in tank truck logistics—an industry not always seen as green-forward.

Recognizing Drivers and Support Teams

Travis O’Banion, Managing Director of Safety and Sustainability at Highway Transport, emphasized that this award is a direct reflection of the people behind the wheel and in the service bays.

“It was exciting to be recognized at this year’s ACC Responsible Care & Sustainability Conference and receive the inaugural Partner Sustainability Award,” said O’Banion. “This award was made possible by the daily commitment from Highway Transport drivers and service center support personnel to lower emissions. We’re doing that through consistently practicing sustainable processes and utilizing technologies implemented by our organization. We truly are driving for a better tomorrow.”

A Model for Sustainable Tanker Operations

The ACC conference, known for tackling critical industry issues like water conservation and supply chain decarbonization, provided the perfect platform to spotlight Highway Transport’s progress. As the chemical industry pushes for greater environmental accountability, the success of Highway’s Green Treads program shows what’s possible when sustainability becomes a shared mission across all levels of a company.

By setting a new standard in green fleet operations, Highway Transport is not just hauling chemicals—they’re helping lead the industry into a more sustainable future.

Source: Truckers News
Image Source: Highway Transport) Rick Lusby, VP of Safety & Fleet Services, and Travis O’Banion, Managing Director of Safety & Sustainability

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The show truck, designed to meet the evolving needs of American truckers, is equipped with a unique hybrid powertrain system. It features both a diesel engine and an electric motor, allowing drivers to switch seamlessly between diesel for long hauls and electricity for areas with strict emission regulations.

“Drivers should not have to choose between losing their longtime routes because of changing regulatory environments or losing the truck in which they have already made significant investments,” Gardner said. “American truckers want their trucks to reflect their identity, and our retrofit technology allows them to continue driving the trucks they love while still making a living.”

A Hybrid That Runs Like a Diesel Truck

Unlike fully electric trucks, ReVolt’s hybrid system eliminates the burdens of massive battery weights. The system uses a diesel engine and generator to charge the batteries, which then power the electric drivetrain. What does this mean for truckers?

• Comparable Range: The truck offers almost the same mileage as a traditional diesel truck. On an all-electric mode—with uses like port operations or areas with strict emissions—it provides a range of approximately 100 miles.

• Potent Performance: The hybrid system delivers 670 horsepower and 3,500 lb.-ft. of torque, making the truck as powerful as its diesel-only counterparts.

• Heavy-Haul Capability: With a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 130,000 pounds, the retrofitted Peterbilt 379 can handle overweight loads with ease.

Cost-Effective and Environmentally Friendly

One of ReVolt’s primary goals is to make hybrid retrofitting an affordable solution for truckers. While final pricing remains under wraps, the company aims to keep costs comparable to those of a routine “million-mile” overhaul. A new electric semi can cost upwards of $500,000, so retrofitting offers a more accessible path to modernization for owner-operators and fleet managers alike.

Fuel efficiency is where the retrofit shines. ReVolt’s system averages at least 12 MPG in targeted applications, generating 40% fuel savings. It also integrates regenerative braking and an efficient range extender to charge batteries, reducing emissions while maximizing operational efficiency.

The retrofit eliminates the need for a separate auxiliary power unit (APU). Drivers can enjoy nearly unlimited heating and cooling in their sleeper cabins without idling, cutting costs further while reducing potential maintenance issues.

A New Era of Efficiency and Sustainability

ReVolt Motors has positioned its diesel-electric hybrid retrofit technology as a cleaner, more reliable, and cost-effective solution for the changing trucking landscape. By offering a 40% reduction in emissions, increased fuel efficiency, and the ability to reduce dependence on diesel fuel, ReVolt’s retrofit helps drivers and fleets stay ahead in an evolving market.

ReVolt’s ability to combine cutting-edge engineering with practical solutions for truckers is reflected through its innovative technology. The system not only supports environmental goals but also preserves the operational reliability and flexibility truckers need.

See It in Action at MATS

ReVolt Motors is excited to engage with industry professionals at MATS. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the Peterbilt 379 retrofit in person, speak with ReVolt team members, and even schedule a test drive. To arrange a test drive or meeting, email Contact@ReVoltMotors.io.

Source: Overdrive

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Targeting Freight’s Largest-Impact Segment

Based in Fort Wayne, Indiana, NACFE has explained their decision to focus this Run on what they call the “messy middle.”

“We chose to focus this Run on the messy middle and specifically on long-haul, return-to-base, and over-the-road duty cycles because it is the largest emitting market segment and there is confusion surrounding it,” said Mike Roeth, NACFE’s executive director.

Set to take place in September, the event will highlight four distinct powertrain options—diesel, natural gas, battery-electric, and hydrogen fuel cells. Each powertrain type will be represented by three trucks from different fleets, offering valuable real-world data to help better understand the long-haul segment.

“By having trucks with a variety of powertrains, we will be able to capture real-world data and bring some clarity to the long-haul portion of the messy middle,” Roeth noted.

NACFE is actively working with fleets to select an accurate mix of participants to reflect current industry trends. The organization has announced that details about the selected fleets will be shared this spring, followed by on-site visits to each of the 12 fleet locations.

Leveraging Data to Drive Insights

For this Run, like previous ones, each participating truck will be equipped with Geotab telematics devices. Geotab, NACFE’s official data partner for Run on Less – Messy Middle, will enable the event to collect and analyze critical data.

The Run on Less website will also play a central role, featuring updated fleet profiles, video stories, and a dashboard tracking various metrics. Additionally, information and results from the prior four Runs will still be accessible through the site, allowing for comprehensive knowledge sharing.

Educational Bootcamp Series Kicks Off in February

Complementing the September event is a 13-session Bootcamp series, set to begin on Wednesday, February 11, at 1 p.m. EST, with sessions continuing every other week. The Bootcamp is designed to educate and engage industry professionals across various fuel technologies, including diesel, natural gas, battery-electric, and hydrogen-powered vehicles.

Three sessions will specifically cover each powertrain type, followed by dedicated recap workshops. A concluding session will address additional fuel-efficiency technologies critical to the messy middle.

Rachel Ellenberger, NACFE’s industry engagement manager, expressed her enthusiasm for the Bootcamp program, saying, “The NACFE team has been hard at work over the last few months putting together stellar programming for the Run on Less – Messy Middle Bootcamp, and I’m excited to unveil it to our audience.”

She added, “This year’s Bootcamp will include the educational sessions we all know and love along with workshops designed to be more conversational and encourage further audience participation. The agenda is set, and we’re excited to continue to recruit engaging speakers who are talented storytellers in their corner of the industry. I’m looking forward to seeing you in February!”

Participants can register for the Bootcamp today, with ACT News, published by TRC Companies, assisting NACFE in coordinating the program mechanics.

Event Sponsors and Industry Backing

NACFE has already secured two major title sponsors for the upcoming Run—Cummins and Shell. Additional sponsors announced include Chevron, Clean Energy, The Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), Eaton, ExxonMobil, FlowBelow, Geotab, PepsiCo, Prologis, and TeraWatt.

“We are grateful to the Title and Event Sponsors that have stepped up so early in the process to help sponsor Run on Less – Messy Middle,” Roeth stated. “The Run is not possible without industry support, and we still need Executive, Title, Event and Supporter Sponsors.”

Don’t Miss Out on the Action

The Run on Less – Messy Middle is poised to be another groundbreaking initiative by NACFE, offering game-changing insights into how fleets can tackle emissions, operational efficiency, and a clearer path through the so-called “messy middle.”

Follow NACFE for updates on participants, sponsor additions, and insights from the Bootcamp! Don’t forget to register for the Bootcamp today and stay ahead of the curve in exploring innovative solutions for freight efficiency.

Source: The Trucker  

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When the Starship was first revealed about six years ago, its unconventional design turned heads, resembling something out of a futuristic car show rather than a typical semi. Back then, it boasted an impressive 8.94 miles per gallon—a remarkable feat that has since paved the way for many drivers who now routinely exceed 9 or even 10 mpg. Even more impressive, the Starship achieved an average freight ton efficiency of 178.4 ton-miles per gallon, which is a staggering 248% improvement over the Class 8 industry average of 72 ton-mpg.

Now in its third iteration, the Shell Starship has made significant strides in freight ton efficiency, achieving 2.542 times better performance in ton-miles per gallon and 3.23 times better when considering emissions measured in CO2e. While the latest model has a fuel efficiency of 9 mpg diesel gallon equivalent, this is expected with natural gas engines. However, Kevin Otto, the electrification team lead for the North American Council for Freight Efficiency (NACFE), notes that the tradeoff is worthwhile, as the engine requires less maintenance and offers lower emissions.

Shell’s commitment to cleaner emissions and alternative fuels is evident in the design of this truck. Heather Duffey, the global integrated communications manager for Shell Commercial Road Transport Lubricants, emphasized the importance of having infrastructure to support this innovation. While hydrogen was briefly considered, natural gas emerged as the clear choice due to its immediate availability for fleets. The Starship serves as a testing ground to demonstrate the potential of existing technologies that can be easily adopted by trucking companies today.

As a “lab on wheels,” the Starship validates various innovations, such as the effectiveness of low-viscosity oils and lubricants designed for alternative fuel powertrains. For instance, it utilizes Shell Rotella NG Plus SAE 5W-30 FA-4 synthetic engine oil, which reduces friction and flow resistance, ultimately enhancing fuel economy without compromising protection. Additionally, the truck’s automated manual Eaton transmission is equipped with Shell Spirax S6 GME 40, a lubricant specifically engineered for high-torque applications.

Although the Starship showcases advanced technology, it remains accessible. Duffey points out that trucking companies are unlikely to invest in entirely new models without seeing tangible results first. The features that make the Starship unique—like its custom carbon fiber cab—are not just gimmicks; they are indicative of advancements that fleets can integrate into their existing operations.

Upon stepping inside the cab, drivers are met with a spacious environment reminiscent of a luxury aircraft cockpit, complete with multiple screens for monitoring the vehicle’s performance. The panoramic view from the cab is impressive, facilitated by a massive windshield and a camera system that replaces traditional side mirrors. This design is a testament to the truck’s innovative approach to aerodynamics and visibility.

From the driver’s seat, the X15N engine delivers solid power, blending seamlessly into the driving experience. Eric Rector, one of the Starship co-pilots, has spent extensive time in the cab, logging thousands of miles. He shares that he has yet to notice a significant difference in performance between natural gas and diesel engines, emphasizing the practicality of the alternative fuel.

The ability to use renewable natural gas (RNG)—derived from organic waste—offers a substantial advantage for emissions reduction. While RNG can be challenging to source, Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) remains a feasible alternative for many fleets.

The discussion around alternative fuels often overlooks the real-world applicability of natural gas compared to battery electric solutions. Shell’s Starship demonstrates that viable options exist that won’t financially strain motor carriers while significantly reducing emissions. As the trucking industry navigates current freight challenges, the Starship’s focus on efficiency and performance showcases a promising pathway forward.

Key Takeaways

• The Shell Starship 3.0 NG revolutionizes the trucking landscape with its innovative Cummins X15N natural gas engine.
• Achieving remarkable freight ton efficiency and lower emissions, this tractor is a pioneer in the industry.
• As a “lab on wheels,” the Starship proves that advanced technologies can be integrated into everyday trucking operations, making a significant impact on sustainability and efficiency.

This innovative approach not only emphasizes the importance of sustainability in trucking but also highlights practical solutions that drivers can leverage for a more efficient future.

Source: Jason Cannon/ Commercial Carrier Journal

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According to the EPA, these honorees exemplify the best practices in sustainable transportation, achieving impressive results in reducing emissions and optimizing energy use while transporting goods across vast distances. These industry leaders stand out for their commitment to minimizing fuel consumption, decreasing greenhouse gas emissions, and enhancing air quality within the communities they operate.

The esteemed recipients of the 2024 SmartWay Freight Partner Excellence Award include:

• Arrow Transportation

• Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations

• Canadian Reefers Ltd.

• Cargo Transporters

• Covenant Transport

• Crete Carrier Corporation

• CRST The Transportation Solution Inc

• D&D Transportation Services Inc

• Danny Herman Trucking Inc

• Discount Tire

• Divine Enterprises, Inc.

• Dollar Tree Stores, Inc

• Edgewell Personal Care

• Elevate Textiles, Inc.

• Forza Transportation Services, Inc

• Gap Inc. Canada

• Gap Inc. USA

• Georgia-Pacific Consumer Products LP

• GP Transportation Co

• Hirschbach Motor Lines

• Hogan Transports, Inc.

• Keane Thummel Trucking Inc.

• Kellanova

• Kimberly-Clark Corporation

• Knight Transportation, Inc.

• Kohl’s

• Lowe’s Companies, Inc.

• May Trucking Company

• McDonald’s USA, LLC

• Meijer

• Mesilla Valley Transportation

• Mike Frost Trucking, Inc.

• Nussbaum Transportation Services, Inc.

• Ocean Spray Cranberries, Inc

• Paper Transport, LLC

• Prime, Inc.

• Royal Trucking Company

• Ryder Dedicated Transportation Solutions (DTS)

• Saia Motor Freight Line, LLC

• Schneider

• Swift Transportation Co. of Arizona, LLC

• The Home Depot U.S.A., Inc

• The TJX Companies, Inc.

• Tractor Supply Company

• Trans-West Logistics Inc / Logistiques Trans-West Inc.

• Werner Enterprises

• Western Express, Inc.

Michael S. Regan, EPA Administrator, remarked, “As we mark our 20th anniversary this year, we celebrate decades of our partners advancing freight efficiency, and delivering goods with less fuel and lower emissions, thus strengthening this essential economic sector while supporting air quality goals.” He continued, “SmartWay is proud to recognize 47 top performing truck carrier and shipper Partners — with the 2024 SmartWay Excellence Award for outstanding environmental performance and business leadership in goods movement.”

This recognition underscores the pivotal role these partners play in promoting environmentally responsible practices in the transportation sector.

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