Diesel Power in Iceland - The Land of Fire and Ice

We love Iceland for the same reasons we love a well-run diesel shop, it looks rugged from the outside and it’s even tougher on the inside. From the outside, people see waterfalls and Northern Lights…but diesel pros like us see freight moving through wind, sleet, and black ice while engines start every frozen morning without complaint.

A Diesel-Driven Nation

Iceland runs a clean power grid, but transport is still a fossil fuel story. The International Energy Agency reports that transport accounts for 58 percent of Iceland’s total oil use. That’s the trucks, buses, and work vehicles that keep the island supplied and the economy alive.

Swap a small car for an EV, but when you’re hauling freight through sleet, diesel is what gets you there reliably.

Freight and Trucking in Iceland

Bernard McManus from Victoria, BC, Canada - P1010293

The country’s trucking and freight network is smaller than in most places, but it’s vital. According to IBISWorld, the freight road transport industry in Iceland is worth around €154.6 million in 2025. ReportLinker projects truck imports will grow from $127 million in 2023 to $153 million by 2028.

That may not sound massive, but for a country of 380,000 people, it’s proof that Iceland depends on trucks for everything from seafood exports to construction supplies.

Why Diesel Still Wins in Harsh Conditions

Iceland’s terrain pushes vehicles to their limits. There’s volcanic gravel, freezing rain, and steep climbs that punish engines. Electric charging infrastructure isn’t yet widespread, so diesel is the only option for reliable long-distance transport.

The Environment Agency of Iceland’s 2024 inventory report confirms that transport is still one of the top sources of emissions, and also one of the hardest to replace. For now, diesel power keeps the shelves stocked and the ports busy.

The Future of Diesel in Iceland

Iceland is investing in cleaner fuels and small fleets of electric buses, but diesel trucks still rule the highways. Many operators are starting to use biodiesel blends or hybrid options to cut emissions while maintaining reliability.

The country’s geography makes it a perfect testbed for the balance between tradition and innovation.

Why We’re Headed There

Our Iceland Giveaway isn’t just about the views. It’s about celebrating what makes our industry tough and dependable. The same grit that gets a driver through a whiteout on the Ring Road is the same grit that fuels every technician and fleet operator we serve.

When we send our winners to Iceland, it’s more than an adventure. It’s a reminder that diesel is still what keeps the world running in places where quitting isn’t an option.

Want a seat next to us on this adventure? Enter here: https://www.diesellaptops.com/pages/iceland-giveaway