Shayne Commons said Australia’s recent diesel disruption was a fuel-supply shock—not an engine problem—and urged fleets to plan a multi-energy strategy before the next crisis.
Global supply pressure, geopolitical tension, shipping interruptions and panic buying drove the volatility, while a temporary diesel flash-point change did not cut energy content, power, fuel economy or warranty coverage, he said.
HVO renewable diesel was presented as the most practical near-term alternative because it can replace conventional diesel without new infrastructure, though Australia’s limited domestic supply still keeps costs high and scale constrained.
Since late 2024, new Volvo and Mack trucks built at Wacol have had their first engine start on 100% HVO, which Commons cited as proof the fuel already works in existing heavy-vehicle operations.
Battery-electric trucks are already operating in urban distribution, waste, ports and mining support, but Volvo expects diesel, HVO, electric, gas and hydrogen to share roles based on each fleet task.
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Australia’s 2026 Diesel Crisis: Economic Fallout, Geopolitical Risks, and Volvo’s Roadmap to Multi-Energy Transport
Overview
In July 2026, Australia faces a severe diesel crisis, with major supply disruptions hitting the road freight sector hard. While the country’s isolation offers a brief window to prepare, the government is urged to act quickly and not waste this chance. The situation is dire, as veteran lorry drivers report conditions worse than anything seen in decades, and smaller freight companies struggle to survive. Financial pressures have forced experienced drivers like Terry Snell to cut back on work, highlighting the urgent need for decisive action to protect the industry and ensure supply chain stability.