Abstract for: Multi-system transition dynamics of road freight transport and electric energy systems

Road freight transport is a major contributor to global CO2 emissions, accounting for more than 7% of total emissions. Its decarbonisation relies on the renewable energy supply system. To achieve net zero emissions by 2050, it is crucial to model and understand the transition of both systems simultaneously and consider their complex interconnections. We use the multi-system transition theory to display the couplings between road freight transport and energy systems. We expand the theory by using system dynamics to analyse dynamics in multi-system transitions applied to the energy-transport transition case. Preliminary results show that the adoption of electric trucks is strongly dependent on grid upgrading and other parameters. We found 17 results connecting the two systems and potentially influencing the transition of both systems. Preliminary results imply that policymakers should consider the connectedness and path dependency between systems when transitioning to carbon neutrality. We will expand the research to support this preliminary observation more concretely.