Diesel engines are a huge risk to people’s health and the planet. The solution? Accelerating a just transition to electric trucks.
Diesel trucks pump out harmful emissions that cause asthma, heart disease, and other serious health issues—especially for drivers and roadside communities. And the damage doesn’t stop there.
Truck pollution fuels the climate crisis, driving extreme weather and environmental destruction worldwide. The economic toll is just as severe, with rising healthcare costs, lost workdays, and infrastructure damage straining communities and businesses alike. Sticking with diesel isn’t just harmful; it’s unsustainable—and we’re all paying the price.
Premature deaths linked to the emissions of trucks sold by top truck manufacturers.
New cases of asthma in children.
Workdays vanish each year due to pollution-related illnesses.
Economic cost health related impacts linked to diesel truck emissions from top truck manufacturers.[X]Health effects of diesel trucks (2014-2023) from Daimler, Paccar, Traton, and Volvo. All statistics from Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (2025) “Heavy-duty Harm: A Global Analysis of Health and Economic Impact”
Volvo and Daimler dominate the global trucking industry, with operations in more than 100 countries, massive influence over sales and policies, and billion-dollar profits. As two of the world’s top manufacturers by revenue, they have both the power and the responsibility to accelerate the shift to electric trucks—a technology that’s already available. They’ve pooled resources and made big promises, but their progress isn’t keeping pace. Bold commitments are one thing. Taking bold action is another.
Volvo and Daimler must lead the electric revolution. Diesel pollution harms communities, but electric trucks can reduce toxic emissions and save millions of lives worldwide. These idle giants can accelerate this change. We’re calling on Volvo and Daimler to commit to 100% zero-emission sales, support workers, and ensure clean air for all.
We’re calling on Volvo and Daimler to accelerate a just transition to electric trucks; one that protects jobs, respects workers’ rights, and supports communities to transition away from fossil fuels. Your voice matters. Demand clean trucks for healthier air, a safer climate, and a sustainable future.
Accelerate to 100% new zero-emissions truck sales by 2040 worldwide
Advance a zero-emissions truck industry that works for all
Foster the infrastructure and ecosystem needed to scale
As Europe’s truck manufacturers gather at IAA Transportation to unveil the latest generation of electric trucks, clean transport advocates are urging the EU Commission to reject any further weakening of the EU’s heavy-duty vehicle CO2 standards and calling on manufacturers to deliver the electric trucks they have already promised.
A California bill aiming to bring down the high price of electric trucks was approved by both houses and will now go to Governor Gavin Newsom to sign, in a move that will help clean up California’s polluted air and give U.S. trucking an alternative to sky-rocketing diesel prices.
The global electric truck market is set for take-off in the early 2030s as falling costs make battery-electric trucks increasingly competitive with diesel, according to a new report from financial think tank Carbon Tracker.