Enabling sustainable freight transport with longer, heavier vehicles in India

Abstract

This groundbreaking study focuses on understanding the environmental impacts of longer, heavier vehicles (LHVs) in India's transportation system. Through a comprehensive life cycle assessment using the OpenLCA program and ecoinvent database, the research reveals that LHVs have lower negative life cycle impacts than conventional trucks. Increasing the modal share of LHVs by 40% in India's road freight transportation significantly reduces the overall environmental harm compared to the current freight transport mix. Additionally, the study demonstrates that even without market expansion, a 40% increase in LHVs' presence leads to a remarkable 12% reduction in global warming effects. The findings emphasize LHVs' potential as a sustainable and eco-friendly solution for India's freight transportation while highlighting the need for infrastructure development to capitalize on these benefits fully. Although the study acknowledges limitations related to data sources, it offers valuable insights into shaping a greener and more efficient transport system for the nation's future.