NACFE Sees Technology Improvements in Messy Middle

NACFE Sees Technology Improvements in Messy Middle

https://www.ttnews.com/articles/nacfe-messy-middle-tech

Publish Date: 2026-02-05 12:48:00

Source Domain: www.ttnews.com

NACFE issued the first of five reports on the data from the latest program, September’s Messy Middle Run on Less event, on Jan. 28. (NACFE)

February 5, 2026 12:48 PM, EST

Key Takeaways:

• NACFE’s initial Messy Middle findings show improvements across natural gas, battery-electric and hydrogen powertrains.
• Fueling and charging infrastructure remains insufficient for wide fleet adoption despite technology gains.
• Fleets in the study operated diverse equipment ranging from diesel and biodiesel to natural gas, battery-electric and hydrogen trucks.

The North American Council for Freight Efficiency’s initial findings from its latest initiative show powertrains across a broad spectrum of technologies are improving, offering increased cost cutting for carriers.

NACFE issued the first of five reports on the data from the latest program, September’s Messy Middle Run on Less event, on Jan. 28.

The next three reports will focus on operations, emissions and total cost of ownership, respectively, before a final findings report is issued.

“All the powertrain technologies are improving and revealing new benefits,” NACFE said. “However, challenges persist, especially with fueling/charging infrastructure, weight and cost.”

The latest natural gas-powered trucks satisfy the needs of diesel truck owners with more power, torque, range and fill times, the report found.

Three gas-fueled tractors took part in the Messy Middle, the first such powertrains to contribute to a NACFE program since 2019’s Run on Less Regional Haul demonstration.

All three utilized a Cummins X15N engine. The engines ran in a Kenworth T680 sleeper, Kenworth T880 sleeper and a Peterbilt 360 day cab tractor.
…

Source