HVO vs. Electric: Choosing the Best Path to Net Zero for Your Fleet

The Drive Toward Net Zero 

The countdown to Net Zero 2050 is well and truly on. With the government pledging to end its contribution to climate change over the coming decades, legislation is increasingly focused on a move away from fossil fuels and towards alternative energies.

This is key for fleet operators as the pressure to adopt more sustainable practices due to environmental concerns, regulations and customer expectations increases.

Operators are looking for simple, seamless and sustainable fleet solutions to move towards net zero – and there are a few options.

Let’s explore the difference between alternative fuel and electric vehicles to see what would work best for your HGV fleet.

What is HVO fuel? 

HVO, or Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil, is a more sustainable, responsible alternative to fossil diesel. It’s produced with vegetable oil or animal fat and has a lower fuel density, is virtually free from aromatics, metals and sulphur content, and has a higher cetane value than standard diesel.

The impact HVO can have on fleets looking to transition to alternative fuels is huge. By switching to HVO, fleets can cut fuel-related emissions (well to wheel) from operations by up to 90%* compared to standard diesel, helping to lower their carbon footprint with immediate effect.

*source: Greenhouse gas reporting: conversion factors 2023 – GOV.UK 

Understanding Electric Vehicles (EVs) for Fleets 

Electrical Vehicles (EVs) have become much more widespread in recent years, especially in car models, and have been praised for their zero tailpipe emissions, advancements in charging infrastructure, and suitability for a range of different driving needs.

So what about an electric HGV fleet? Currently, the technology and specialist charging points required aren’t as common they are for electric cars – but they will be soon. Fuel providers such as Certas Energy are intending to invest heavily in electric HGV infrastructure, in order to support fleet operators with the energy transition. In a few years, the picture should be very different. 

HVO vs. Electric: Key Comparisons 

HVO Fuel Benefits

There are a range of benefits for HVO fuel that make it an accessible alternative fuel source on your journey to net zero.

The first and most important is that the effects are instant – with no engine modifications required, you can put it straight into your diesel tank and go.

• Fleets can cut fuel-related emissions from operations by up to 90%* compared to standard diesel, helping to lower their carbon footprint with immediate effect.
• HVO is practically FAME and fossil-free**, with limited risk of microbial attack.
• As mentioned above, there’s no need to modify your engines or replace your entire fleet – HVO is a drop-in replacement for standard diesel.
• Beyond sustainability, HVO offers low temperature performance and also has a lower filter blocking tendency, with improved combustions over some alternatives.

Electric Fleets Analysed

If HVO is an instant win, electrification is the long-term goal, and a crucial part of the energy mix of the future. Below, we’ve briefly analysed some of its perks and drawbacks for the transportation and logistics industry:

• Some operators are hesitant to transition to EHGVs due to the initial costs and range limitations involved.
• There may also be weight limits for electric HGV loads, which could change how much cargo can be transported, and therefore how many journeys need to be made.
• However, with no fuel, zero emissions, and longer service intervals, the monetary and environmental cost of this would be minimal compared to extra journeys in a diesel truck.
• While the infrastructure is not widespread now, fuel providers such as Certas Energy are aiming to invest heavily in e-truck infrastructure.
• In the relatively near future, operators can expect to see specialist HGV charging points at more and more refuelling stations.

*source: Greenhouse gas reporting: conversion factors 2023 – GOV.UK

** <1%, nominal trace levels only if not zero

Certas Energy and Sustainable Fleet Solutions

Certas Energy will always support you on your energy transition journey. That’s why HVO is readily available at

We’re also intending to invest in specialist infrastructure for electric HGV charging points at the at The Hollies (WS11 1SB)  in the near future. It’s predicted that the government will be introducing initiatives to ramp up eHGV adoption soon, so it’s good to know that in a few years’ time, we could be seeing many more eHGV fleets on the roads.

Making the Right Choice for Your Fleet 

It’s important to assess whether HVO, EVs, or a combination of both is the best fit for your business’ net zero goals.

When deciding what will work best for your fleet, you should consider:

• The operational needs of your fleet e.g. the average distance travelled by your drivers.
• Your budget and whether this includes a full modification or upgrade of your vehicles.
• The long-term sustainability plans of your business and how quickly you need to reach your goals.

The great thing about Certas Energy’s offering is that there’s an option for today, and for tomorrow. You can choose HVO to reduce your emissions instantly, with a long-term goal of transitioning to electronic HGVs once the infrastructure is more accessible.

If you need some extra help figuring out what is best for your fleet, check out the Fuel Card HVO on the Road Hub and calculators. These digital tools are a great way to make educated decisions about transitioning to HVO. 

The Future of Decarbonised Fleets 

Across the UK, forward-thinking fleet operators have started planning for their move to more sustainable practices already.

While electric vehicles will be important in the journey to net zero, HVO is a renewable and responsible alternative fuel that can make an immediate impact on your fleet’s emissions.

Contact Certas Energy today to explore our range of future-focused solutions, such as Certas Energy Fuel Cards and alternative fuels, designed to support you on your net zero journey.