Day 1 Recap at ACT Expo: Toyota, CircularEV, ZM Trucks, Workhorse, Kenworth, and Harbinger Highlights
In the realm of commercial transportation, the 2025 Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo served as a significant platform for discussions surrounding the future of fleet technology. The event highlighted the growing interest in a diverse range of electrification solutions, including hydrogen fuel cell technology and hybrid systems, as the industry moves towards decarbonization.
## Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology
The potential of hydrogen fuel cells as a viable option for commercial fleets, particularly for heavy-duty applications, gained momentum at the event. Expert panels emphasised the need for advancements in hydrogen fuel distribution and storage infrastructure to support wider adoption. Improvements in these areas are expected to enhance the competitiveness of hydrogen fuel against battery-electric solutions.
The importance of building out hydrogen refueling networks and investing in storage solutions was underscored as critical for enabling the transition to hydrogen-powered commercial fleets. Toyota Motor North America, for instance, reaffirmed its commitment to a hydrogen-based future, announcing major investments in hydrogen-powered Class 8 fuel cell trucks for its North American logistics fleet.
## Electric Vehicle Solutions
The industry is exploring a variety of electrification pathways, including battery-electric, hybrid, natural gas, and propane options. This reflects a broader recognition that different fleet needs may require tailored solutions rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Harbinger, a leading American manufacturer of electric and hybrid vehicles for medium-duty fleets, unveiled its plug-in series hybrid at ACT Expo 2025, featuring a low-emissions 1.4-liter gasoline engine and rapid DC fast charging capabilities. The company also announced plans to localize production in Kansas and collaborate with RV industry leaders like THOR Industries to produce next-generation recreational vehicles.
BAE Systems showcased its expertise in electric drivetrain and power electronics, demonstrating a medium-duty diesel truck converted to an all-electric vehicle. Companies like RIZON, under the Daimler Truck Group, introduced new medium-duty, battery-electric cabover trucks, signalling ongoing investment in electric commercial vehicle platforms.
## Industry Outlook
Despite some market confusion regarding the best path forward, the overall mood among industry leaders was optimistic. There is a belief that the range of available technologies—including hydrogen fuel cells, battery-electric, and hybrids—will enable the commercial transport industry to meet its decarbonization targets.
Success, however, hinges not only on technological innovation but also on supportive policy frameworks and robust infrastructure investment, especially for hydrogen fuels.
## Comparison Table: Hydrogen vs. Battery-Electric for Commercial Fleets
| Feature | Hydrogen Fuel Cell | Battery-Electric | |------------------------|------------------------------|---------------------------------| | Range | Longer (suited for HD fleets)| Varies (shorter for heavy-duty) | | Refueling/Recharging | Faster (minutes) | Slower (hours) | | Infrastructure | Developing | Expanding | | Weight | Lighter (vs. large batteries)| Heavier (with large packs) | | Suitability | Heavy-duty, long-haul | Urban, regional, medium-duty |
The 2025 ACT Expo demonstrated that both hydrogen fuel cell and battery-electric technologies are advancing rapidly, but the industry is still exploring the optimal mix for commercial fleet electrification and decarbonization.
Kenworth unveiled an expanded lineup of advanced powertrain solutions, including the debut of the next-generation Kenworth T680E and the new T880E - the industry's first Class 8 battery-electric truck designed specifically for vocational applications. Harbinger has also announced Panasonic Energy as its official battery cell supplier, with plans to use Panasonic's high-density 2170 lithium-ion battery cells in its American-made medium-duty EVs.
The W56 electric step van achieved 27 MPGe, three times the efficiency of traditional ICE vans, and cut average fuel costs by 53%. Workhorse Group Inc. announced the successful completion of a 2,400-mile drive from Cincinnati, Ohio to Anaheim, California in its W56 electric step van.
In conclusion, the 2025 ACT Expo provided a valuable platform for industry leaders, manufacturers, and innovators to share insights, showcase advancements, and discuss the challenges and opportunities in the rapidly evolving field of commercial fleet electrification. As the industry continues to innovate and invest in various electrification solutions, it is clear that a diverse range of technologies will play a crucial role in enabling the commercial transport sector to meet its decarbonization targets.
The event underscored the growing interest in hydrogen fuel cell technology as a viable solution for commercial fleets, particularly heavy-duty applications. Improvements in hydrogen fuel distribution and storage infrastructure are essential for wider adoption, enhancing the competitiveness of hydrogen fuel against battery-electric solutions.
Toyota Motor North America announced major investments in hydrogen-powered Class 8 fuel cell trucks for its North American logistics fleet, emphasizing its commitment to a hydrogen-based future.
In the industry, different fleet needs may require tailored solutions, leading to the exploration of various electrification pathways like battery-electric, hybrid, natural gas, and propane options.
Harbinger, a leading American manufacturer, unveiled its plug-in series hybrid featuring rapid DC fast charging capabilities. The company also announced plans to localize production in Kansas and collaborate with RV industry leaders.
BAE Systems demonstrated a medium-duty diesel truck converted to an all-electric vehicle, while RIZON, under Daimler Truck Group, introduced new medium-duty battery-electric cabover trucks.
Despite market confusion regarding the best path forward, the overall mood among industry leaders was optimistic, believing that technological advances will enable the commercial transport industry to meet its decarbonization targets.
Success depends not only on technological innovation but also on supportive policy frameworks and robust infrastructure investment, especially for hydrogen fuels.
A comparison table revealed that hydrogen fuel cells offer longer range, faster refueling/recharging, and lighter weight, but battery-electric vehicles have expanding infrastructure and suit urban, regional, and medium-duty applications.
Kenworth unveiled advanced powertrain solutions, including the debut of the next-generation Kenworth T680E and the new T880E - the industry's first Class 8 battery-electric truck designed for vocational applications.
Harbinger has partnered with Panasonic Energy as its official battery cell supplier for its medium-duty EVs, using high-density 2170 lithium-ion battery cells.
The W56 electric step van achieved three times the efficiency of traditional ICE vans, reducing average fuel costs by 53%. Workhorse Group Inc. completed a 2,400-mile drive in its W56 electric step van.
Renewable-energy, particularly in the form of solar and wind power, is expected to play a significant role in funding the infrastructure required for electrification solutions in the industry.
Interior-design trends in the automotive industry are focusing on sustainable materials, enhanced comfort, and modern technology integration.
The finance industry plays a crucial role in funding the transition to cleaner transportation solutions through investments in renewable-energy, energy-efficient vehicles, and related technologies.
The ACT Expo also highlighted the importance of cybersecurity and data-and-cloud-computing in the transportation industry, as advancements in technology create new opportunities for data collection and analysis.
Cooking and food-and-drink enthusiasts can adapt to more sustainable lifestyles by focusing on plant-based recipes, global-cuisines, and budget-friendly dishes.
Lifestyle choices and outdoor-living trends have contributed to the popularity of eco-friendly product choices, sustainable manufacturing processes, and adventure-travel experiences.
The era of private-equity and venture-capital investments in clean technology and sustainable businesses continues to grow, with a focus on small-businesses, start-ups, and innovative solutions.
In personal-finance management, prioritizing saving, debt-management, and budgeting can lead to financial stability and freedom.
Home-and-garden projects, such as home-improvement and baking, offer opportunities to explore eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient appliances, and healthy-cooking recipes.
Beverages, particularly those with plant-based and low-sugar ingredients, are on the rise in the food-and-drink industry, as consumers seek healthier options.
Dining establishments are prioritizing sustainability, offering locally-sourced, organic, and plant-based menu options, reducing waste, and adopting energy-efficient practices.
Automotive, electrical, and technology companies are developing smartphones and gadgets with advanced features to improve safety, efficiency, and connectivity in transportation.
Leadership in the industry is recognizing the importance of diversity-and-inclusion and actively seeking ways to promote equal opportunities, fair representation, and an inclusive culture.
The investment landscape in the real-estate industry is evolving, with increasing interest in sustainable properties, energy-efficient buildings, and smart-home technologies.
The stock-market continues to reflect the impact of technological advancements, clean energy initiatives, and industry shifts, offering opportunities for investing and wealth-management in these sectors.
In the finance sector, fintech companies are leveraging artificial-intelligence and data analysis to provide more personalized financial services, streamlined customer experiences, and improved decision-making.
The ACT Expo's discussions extended to travel, particularly adventure-travel, cultural-travel, and budget-travel, emphasizing the role of sustainable transportation in reducing carbon emissions and preserving natural resources.
Books on sustainable living, DIY projects, and ethical consumerism are becoming increasingly popular, helping individuals make conscious choices and take action towards a more sustainable lifestyle.
Shopping platforms are incorporating sustainability criteria, offering eco-friendly products, and providing carbon footprint information, empowering consumers to make more informed decisions.
Car-maintenance is another aspect where sustainable practices are being adopted, with a focus on regular tune-ups, eco-friendly cleaning products, and energy-efficient parts.
Social-media platforms are facilitating conversations around sustainability, eco-friendly lifestyles, and responsible consumption, amplifying awareness and encouraging action among users.
Movies-and-tv narratives are increasingly focusing on environmental issues and sustainability, inspiring viewers to take action and make positive changes in their lives.
Product-reviews and ratings are playing a crucial role in shaping consumer preferences, encouraging manufacturers to produce eco-friendly and energy-efficient products for a more sustainable future.
The entertainment industry is exploring creative ways to reduce its carbon footprint by adopting sustainable production processes, minimizing waste, and using renewable-energy sources.
In conclusion, the 2025 ACT Expo served as an inspiring platform for discussions on not just the future of fleet technology but also the broader shifts towards renewable-energy, sustainable living, and responsible business practices across various industries. As the industry continues to innovate and collaborate, we can move closer to a more sustainable and equitable future.
