The rapid rise in global energy demand, escalating urban air pollution, and the pressing need to mitigate climate change have placed the spotlight on sustainable transportation solutions. Among the most critical areas requiring attention is the commercial vehicle sector, which accounts for a significant share of fossil fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. In this context, alternative fuel technologies have emerged as a transformative force in reshaping the future of mobility.

This panel discussion aims to explore the current state, emerging innovations, and implementation challenges related to alternative fuel technologies in commercial vehicles. The discussion will cover a broad spectrum of fuel alternatives. Experts from academia, industry will provide interdisciplinary perspectives on the technological viability, infrastructure requirements, cost dynamics, and regulatory support mechanisms needed for large-scale adoption.

Panelists will share their insights into the need for the adoption of alternative fuels offering valuable insights into real-world applications and barriers. The role of government incentives, public-private partnerships, and academic research in enabling these transitions will be highlighted.

By focusing on medium and heavy-duty vehicle segments, such as freight trucks and buses, the discussion will delve into the unique challenges faced in decarbonizing commercial transport. The session will serve as a platform to encourage knowledge exchange, foster collaboration, and strategic decision-making toward a more sustainable and energy-efficient transportation future.

Introducing our esteemed Panelists:

Prof. David Cebonis a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in Cambridge University and a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering. He is Director of the Cambridge Vehicle Dynamics Consortium and the Centre for Sustainable Road Freight and he leads Cambridge University Engineering Department’s Transport Research Group and the Department's research theme 'Energy, Transport and Urban Infrastructure'. He serves on the Editorial Boards of four international journals. Professor Cebon’s research covers the mechanical, civil, and materials aspects of road transport engineering. He has authored or co-authored many peer-reviewed papers on dynamic loads of heavy vehicles, road and bridge response and damage, advanced suspension design for heavy vehicles, heavy vehicle safety and mobility, heavy vehicle fuel consumption and decarbonisation and the micromechanics of asphalt deformation and fracture.

Dr. Venkat Srinivaslis a business leader with over 28 years of transformational cross-functional and people leadership experience in automotive/engineering and 5 years of research experience in aerospace engineering. His specializations include Product design / development / launch, program management, strategic product portfolio planning, product / regulatory / manufacturing planning, chassis engineering, strategic sourcing, resource planning, value stream optimization, supply chain management, transformational and tactical leadership.

Mr. Rajesh Khannais the Head of Planning for Trucks at Tata Motors. He has extensive experience within Tata Motors, having previously held positions like Head of the MHCV Product Planning Group and Regional Manager in various regions for customer care and product management, including Africa, South & East Asia, and the international business. His current role, as Head of Planning Trucks, focuses on the trucking sector at Tata Motors.

Mr. Rohan Shravan is the Ex CEO of Tresa Motors, an OEM manufacturer of medium and heavy electric trucks. A Mechanical Engineer from IIT Kharagpur, Mr. Shravan has an experience of over a decade in industrial design, manufacturing and artificial intelligence.