How New Jersey plans to electrify heavy-duty vehicles across the state

When it comes to transportation pollution, heavy-duty vehicles such as trucks and buses are some of the worst offenders. New Jersey is moving to change that.

In early January, the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities released a plan to build out electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure with the goal of electrifying the state’s 500,000 heavy-duty trucks, buses and long-haul tractor trailers. Diesel-powered medium- and heavy-duty vehicles amount to only 4% of all vehicles on the road, but emit 25% of the greenhouse gas pollution — which is why Environment New Jersey staff and supporters have been advocating for bold investments in EV infrastructure.

“This proposal has been long awaited and should result in more investment in charging infrastructure,’’ said Environment New Jersey State Director Doug O’Malley. “This will help get the dirtiest trucks out of communities already overburdened by dirty air and the looming consequences of our warming climate.’’