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
Europe’s largest truck manufacturers are facing criticism after calling for the EU to carry out an early review of truck CO₂ standards and implying they should be weakened, with clean freight experts warning the industry is undermining market certainty needed to secure Europe’s industrial future.
Heavy transport is at a critical crossroads, but Swedish manufacturing giant Volvo Group seems more interested in moving the goalposts than winning the race.
A bill on electric truck pricing, which has passed three Senate committees unanimously, aims to ensure that state funding being spent to boost electric truck uptake is used to maximum effect, say clean transport advocates.