How fleets can choose the right alternative powertrain

Finding the right powertrain in a changing landscape can be tough—but, according to NACFE’s Mike Roeth, it can also be a fun learning experience. Roeth breaks down today’s alternative powertrain options and how fleets can begin searching for the tech that works best for them.

Jeremy Wolfe

March 31, 2025

There are more viable powertrain options today than ever before in trucking history.

Carriers are stuck between two eras: diesel is no longer the only powertrain option but the alternatives are not yet fully mature.

The North American Council for Freight Efficiency dubs this period the “messy middle.”

Fleet owners who want to decarbonize first need to identify the alternative that works best for them.

In the video at the top of the page, NACFE’s executive director Mike Roeth breaks down:

Major powertrain options available today
Strengths and weaknesses of these options
How fleets can choose the right tech

“Figuring out how to make good choices, and help your fleet be as successful as possible in what we’re doing, should be fun. It’s what our jobs are,” Roeth told FleetOwner. “Take it seriously—but have fun with it, learn, and come out the back end very successful.”

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About the Author

Jeremy Wolfe

Editor

Editor Jeremy Wolfe joined the FleetOwner team in February 2024. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point with majors in English and Philosophy. He previously served as Editor for Endeavor Business Media's Water Group publications.