Renewable fuels in commercial transportation: Identification of early adopter, user acceptance, and policy implications

Abstract Renewable fuels (drop-in replacement fuels made from renewable electricity) are one option to reduce environmental impacts in transportation. To support the use of renewable fuels, this study identifies early adopters in commercial transportation. We also examine requirements for user acceptance. Finally, we present policy recommendations to increase user acceptance of these fuels. To answer these research questions, we utilize three group discussions with commercial fleet operators of companies operating in urban areas as well as national and international transportation. By discussing on acceptance-building measures, barriers as well as their perception of branches comparatively most appropriate to renewable fuels’ characteristics. The empirical results show that long-distance trucking is the most likely early adopter of renewable fuels. Within long-distance trucking, large logistics and transportation firms in particular are identified as most suitable. Small and medium sized firms, however, are not seen as early adopters. This is due the numerous technical options they have (e.g., renewable fuels, electric vehicles), price uncertainty of renewable fuels, and volatile political decisions regarding vehicles. In our analysis we further identify three acceptance objects: aspects of practical use of renewable fuels (e.g., vehicle technology readiness levels and knowledge), secondary effects of renewable fuel production (e.g., upstream environmental burdens), and the relationship of renewable fuels to electric vehicles. Finally, we provide policy recommendations to support of renewable fuels. First, potential users require reliable and detailed information about planned government actions. In addition, there is a need for long-term funding for these new technologies. In particular, use-case specific (e.g., long-distance trucking) funding is important. Finally, consideration of and information about secondary effects (e.g., upstream environmental burdens) are crucial for user acceptance.