The partnership beween Freightliner and Zero aims to create a fossil-free locomotive operation by 2040 and reach overall net zero by 2050.
Tim Shoveller, CEO of Freightliner Group, UK/Europe, explained: “The technology which Zero are developing is industry leading and has the capability of accelerating both our customers’ and our own journey to Net Zero. Rail freight is already a more sustainable alternative when compared to road, reducing carbon emissions by as much as 76% (compared to diesel).
“By working with Zero, this alternative fuel has the potential to reduce carbon emissions much further, providing a very clear route to Net Zero. We are looking forward to working with Zero and building an even more sustainable future for rail freight.”
Founded by Formula 1 legend Paddy Lowe, Zero recently opened the world’s first fully featured synthetic fuel plant (Plant Zero.1) near Oxford, UK and has plans to build a commercial-scale plant which is to begin production in 2026.
Lowe said: “The UK has a proud tradition of innovation in rail and energy, pioneering Trevithick’s world first full- scale working railway steam locomotive in 1804. Steam locomotives powered the Industrial Revolution for more than a century, ushering in an era of unprecedented progress and prosperity; now, Freightliner is again revolutionising rail freight and logistics by integrating fossil free fuel into the most efficient mode of freight transportation.
“With Zero’s drop-in synthetic fuel solution, Freightliner and its customers can continue using best-in-class rail infrastructure while maximising performance and minimizing emissions. Zero is energised by the opportunities presented in this partnership, and we look forward to working with the great minds at Freightliner to shape the future of fossil-free rail.”
Freightliner has been actively pursuing solutions to decarbonise and fill gaps within its non-electric locomotive fleet and has set near-term targets for a 55 percent reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2033, which will require approximately 26 million litres of alternative fuel across its asset population.
Image courtesy of Freightliner