The milestone reflects the company’s long-term investment in alternative fuels and its focus on reducing diesel dependence while providing customers with measurable emissions data. By operating trucks fueled by renewable natural gas, Paper Transport reports lifecycle carbon emission reductions of up to 90 percent compared with traditional diesel equipment. Those reductions directly support customer Scope 3 emissions reporting, an area of growing importance for shippers.

“We don’t just run natural gas trucks, we build strategic, dedicated partnerships that make sustainable freight real,” said Jared Stedl, Paper Transport chief commercial officer. “Our ability to exceed this goal is only possible because of our customers, who are invested in long term emissions reduction.”

Natural Gas Infrastructure and Fleet Support

The availability of natural gas fueling infrastructure continues to play a key role in supporting fleet adoption across multiple regions. Wisconsin ranks among the top states for compressed natural gas fueling locations, with 44 public CNG stations.

Other states with significant CNG infrastructure include California with 318 stations, Oklahoma with 99, Texas with 95, Pennsylvania with 72, Florida with 59, and Georgia with 49. Nationwide, the total number of stations reached 1,385 dispensing CNG and 81 dispensing liquefied natural gas by the end of last year, according to The Transport Project.

Dedicated Partnerships Drive Results

Paper Transport attributes its progress to seven long-term dedicated partnerships with major shippers in the retail, packaging, and consumer packaged goods sectors. These relationships allow the carrier to build consistent lane density while embedding alternative fuels directly into shipper transportation networks rather than relying on offsets.

Since beginning its natural gas investment strategy in 2010, the company has logged more than 84 million cumulative natural gas miles. That transition has displaced approximately 13.6 million gallons of diesel fuel while supporting expanded lane density across the Midwest, Southeast, and Southern California.

Company leadership says the focus remains on measurable outcomes and transparent reporting for shipper partners.

“Reducing emissions in freight takes more than fuel; it takes commitment,” said Tyler Ellison, Paper Transport chief executive officer. “We’re proud to provide a proven model for shippers who want to embed sustainability into their transportation, not just their marketing decks.”

Source: Commercial Carrier Journal

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Leading the Way to a Sustainable Future

Based in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Schneider has secured its position as an environmental pioneer, becoming the first major transportation company to achieve six million zero-emission miles. This milestone highlights Schneider’s dedication to sustainability, innovation, and industry leadership.

“Reaching six million zero-emission miles is a testament to our steadfast dedication to sustainability and innovation,” stated Mark Rourke, Schneider’s president and CEO. “Leading the way in adopting electric vehicle technology not only benefits the environment but also serves as an example of the broad service capabilities and flexibility we can offer to customers.”

This accomplishment has prevented over 20 million pounds of carbon dioxide (CO2) from being released into the environment—the equivalent of removing approximately 2,100 gas-powered vehicles from the road for an entire year.

A Record-Setting BEV Fleet

Today, Schneider operates one of the largest battery-electric vehicle (BEV) fleets in North America, with around 100 Freightliner eCascadias supplied by Daimler Truck North America (DTNA). Charging infrastructure at Schneider’s Southern California Operations Center includes 16 dual-corded 350 kW chargers, capable of simultaneously powering up to 32 trucks.

“Schneider is a great example of the kind of forward-thinking entrepreneurship our industry needs,” said David Carson, senior vice president, sales and marketing at DTNA. “They’ve achieved over 6 million zero emission miles, which is a reminder for us all to keep working on overcoming challenges together on the path to zero emissions. At DTNA, we’re committed to the shift to zero emissions, alongside pioneers like Schneider, who are showing us what’s possible.”

Supporting Businesses in Sustainability Goals

Schneider’s electric fleet enables customers to meet their sustainability objectives. This was evident in 2023 when Schneider became the first carrier to complete global zero-emission shipments for PepsiCo. During this partnership, over 31,000 zero-emission miles were logged within months.

“PepsiCo is proud to celebrate this milestone driven by Schneider in California,” said David Allen, VP and chief sustainability officer at PepsiCo Foods North America. “Together, we’ve demonstrated how cross-industry partnerships can reduce emissions and create a healthier, cleaner environment.”

Enhancing Driver Experience

Schneider’s drivers have also embraced the advantages of electric vehicles. Thanks to quieter operation and smoother performance, BEVs are transforming the day-to-day lives of long-haul drivers.

“Once you drive an electric truck, you won’t want to go back to a diesel truck. The ride quality and the quietness make a huge difference in our daily operations,” shared Marty Boots, a seasoned Schneider driver.

Improving Air Quality for Southern California

Schneider’s BEV operations are centered in Southern California—a region with critical air quality challenges. This aligns with sustainability objectives set by initiatives like the California Air Resources Board and the Joint Electric Truck Scaling Initiative (JETSI). Funding from JETSI, the U.S. EPA, and the Volkswagen Environmental Mitigation Trust has played a role in expanding Schneider’s electric fleet.

“Achieving six million zero emission miles is more than a milestone — it’s a clear demonstration of how innovation in transportation can lead to cleaner, healthier air for our communities,” said Wayne Nastri, South Coast AQMD’s executive officer. “By embracing battery electric vehicles, Schneider is setting a great example for the industry while directly contributing to improved air quality and public health in regions like Southern California.”

Expanding Beyond Electric

Schneider isn’t stopping with BEVs. The company is actively exploring other eco-friendly alternatives like renewable natural gas and hydrogen-powered engines. Their current fleet of non-electric tractors runs entirely on biodiesel blends, underscoring their comprehensive commitment to a greener transportation future. Schneider has also set ambitious goals, striving to reduce its CO2 emissions per mile by 60% by 2035.

Redefining Sustainable Logistics

The achievement of six million zero-emission miles underscores Schneider’s leadership role in sustainable logistics. This milestone fosters benefits across the board—from reducing environmental impact to enhancing driver satisfaction and empowering clients to meet their green goals.

For more details on how Schneider is transforming the future of transport, check out their Sustainability Page here.

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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