Is COP30 Zero-Emission Transport by 2040 Deal Realistic?

Transportation is the second largest source of global greenhouse gas emissions, having nearly doubled since 1990. The combination of land, air and sea transport causes more than eight billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (GtCO₂e) into the atmosphere each year, with no sign of slowing down.

At COP30, Brazil and Mexico made a move towards carbon-neutral road transportation by signing The Global Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Zero-Emission Medium- and Heavy-Duty Vehicles.

Signed by more than 40 governments, the collective pledge agrees to work towards 100% zero-emission new truck and bus sales by 2040, with an interim milestone of 30% by 2030.​

“The momentum Brazil and Mexico bring to the global shift to zero-emission transport is remarkable,” says Stephanie Kodish, Senior Global Director of CALSTART’s Drive to Zero. “Latin America is a hotspot for clean technology and zero-emission commercial vehicles. And, the people – the local communities – will enjoy the economic, operational, clean air and climate benefits clean trucks and buses deliver.”

Uniting for sustainable transport

First introduced at COP26 in Glasgow, the Global MoU is co-led by the Government of Colombia and clean transportation accelerator CALSTART’s Drive to Zero.

It represents a unified effort among leading countries to decarbonise the most challenging segment of road transport: medium- and heavy-duty vehicles (ZE-MHDVs). These vehicles, including trucks and buses, are substantial contributors to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

By joining the Global MoU, countries commit not just to ambitious targets but to annual data sharing, collaborative planning and active participation in global forums dedicated to accelerating the deployment of zero-emission fleets.​

"Electrification of logistics and public transportation fleets is inevitable and the reasons are clear – compared with diesel-powered vehicles, electric vehicles deliver approximately 80% lower operating costs, 80% to over 100% higher energy efficiency, greater comfort for passengers and drivers and the elimination of particulate matter, polluting gases and CO₂. It’s as logical a choice as the shift from horse-drawn transport to motor vehicles about two centuries ago," says Gustavo Tannure, CEO of EZVolt. 

"By working collaboratively and ambitiously toward a zero-emission commercial vehicle future, Brazil's government is embracing these critical economic, sustainability and health benefits. EZVolt stands ready to support Brazil's growing charging needs."

The role of transport in global decarbonisation

The MoU recognises that achieving net zero by 2050 depends on rapid market transformation, enabling technologies and supportive policy frameworks.

Signatory nations are expected to work together to identify viable transition pathways, implement enabling infrastructure for charging and hydrogen refueling and design incentives that level the economic playing field for zero-emission vehicles.

Although the agreement is non-binding, it establishes a clear signal to manufacturers, investors and logistics providers that the market for zero-emission trucks and buses is poised for exponential growth.​

“The heavy-duty transport sector represents a significant share of global emissions, and mature technical solutions are already available to accelerate its decarbonisation,” explains Christian Levin, President and CEO of Scania.

“Brazil and Mexico demonstrate true leadership by aligning their ambitions with global zero-emission transport goals. Their commitment paves the way for coordinated public–private action to deliver tangible results – reducing emissions, strengthening competitiveness and creating inclusive economic opportunities. At Scania, we stand ready to collaborate in this collective effort to make zero-emission freight transport a reality across Latin America.”

The 42 countries currently signed to the Global MoU account for nearly one in every four trucks worldwide. The endorsing companies, organisations and subnational governments together generate more than US$1.3tn in annual revenue, while the participating national governments represent 40% of global GDP.

“Mexico and Brazil joining the Global MoU is a powerful example of how electrifying heavy-duty transport can drive sustainability in developing economies,” adds Francisco Laverón, Head of Energy Prospective for Iberdrola. “Renewable electricity will fuel this transition toward a cleaner, more competitive and brighter future for all.”

Why COP30 matters

The timing and setting of this expanded adoption are highly symbolic: COP30 underscored the necessity of international cooperation to tackle climate change. Brazil and Mexico's entry showcases major emerging economies’ alignment with net zero ambitions and adding substantial political weight to the campaign. With more than 40 national governments now committed – including nations from every continent – the MoU demonstrates broad consensus and a global sense of urgency.

From 2025 to 2040

The road ahead involves translating commitments into action – through technology adoption, investments in green infrastructure and robust policy guidance. As signatories ramp up annual progress reviews and deployment initiatives, the Global MoU stands as a powerful engine for climate action, with the potential to reshape the global freight and transit sectors for a sustainable future.​

"Today, we celebrate a significant milestone in our commitment to sustainability and decarbonisation of the transportation sector, by signing the Global Memorandum of Understanding with CALSTART,” says Dr. José Luis Samaniego Leyva, Undersecretary of Sustainable Development and Circular Economy at Mexico’s Secretariat of the Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT).

“This collaboration not only reaffirms our political will, but also opens the doors to new opportunities for investment, production and innovation in zero-emission vehicles.

"We are determined to move towards a more sustainable future, promoting economic development that respects and preserves our natural resources. This is just the beginning of a path towards sustainable development and a circular economy that benefits all Mexicans.” 

John Boesel, outgoing CEO of CALSTART, says: “Brazil and Mexico are demonstrating powerful zero-emission transportation leadership across the Americas through their strong policy commitment to zero-emission trucks, buses and infrastructure.

“By sending a clear signal that they are open for business, these countries are poised to attract global fleet operators, infrastructure providers and a host of other zero-emission transport innovators ready for that business.”