EV Semi Trucks

Electric trucks are becoming more popular due to their cost efficiency, better performance and lower emissions. But, what exactly is an electric truck? 

An electric truck is an electric vehicle that is powered by batteries, to transport cargo, carry heavy payloads and provide high performance actions. Electric trucks have been increasing in popularity since 2020 and it is expected that the number of units sold will jump by at least 15% in 2022.

Typical electric trucks are classic heavy-duty vehicles, such as trucks from Scania, Volvo or Daimler.

Benefits of Electric Trucks

• Lower emissions
• Lower maintenance
• Lower noise disturbance
• Better performance
• Increased efficiency

Electric trucks provide businesses with many benefits that primarily aim for the long run.

EV trucks do not require fuel, which is already one of the biggest advantages, due to fuel cost and effect on nature. Driving electric trucks reduces CO2 emissions and actually offers better performance for drivers. EV trucks also have less parts, which should lead to less damage and lower maintenance. However, this depends on a truck model and its usage. While driving within urban areas with frequent stops and speeding, it is way more efficient to drive electric trucks than diesel trucks.

Many companies operating with electric trucks have noticed an increase in employee satisfaction. This was caused by employees understanding and realizing that they contribute to eliminating emissions, appreciation of smooth and quiet ride, and operating cutting-edge technology.

Researchers from the DOE’s Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and the University of California, Los Angeles recently published a study that makes the case for prioritizing public policy to help electrify long-haul trucking, which would deliver huge reductions in emissions.

The study analyzes the total cost of ownership (TCO) of an electric long-haul truck compared to a diesel. Using the current price of a battery pack and assuming a 375-mile range, the researchers found that the TCO for an electric long-haul truck is 13% lower per mile, which translates to a net savings of $200,000 over the life of the truck. The study authors also forecast that future reductions in battery costs and other expected improvements would result in a 50% reduction in TCO per mile by 2030.

Another benefit of EV trucks are the EV tax credits. EV tax credits are a big factor in getting people to make the switch. Under EPA rules, new medium and heavy duty vehicles and engines must adhere to rigid carbon dioxide emission limits in 2021, 2024 and 2027. So by selling even small volumes of electric trucks, the original equipment manufacturers can bring down their carbon emission numbers while getting EV tax credits for over complying to standards. Fleet managers who add EVs to their fleet are eligible for rebates, vehicle registration fee reductions, loans, and special low-cost charging rates. For a detailed list of tax credits and incentives by area, visit the U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center.

Electric trucks might not yet have the capacity for long-distance travel simply due to the shortage of EV charging stations. In the meantime, electric trucks offer a great opportunity for local route use. These short-distance travels have the potential to make a big impact. Electric truck fleet usage may be ideal for delivery services. Places like California that have high-occupancy vehicle lanes (HOV lanes), which EVs often qualify for, can meet criteria to help them deliver packages more quickly. They’re economical, can be used for routes specifically catered to a model’s operating range, and charging can happen at the fleet site overnight.

There are pros and cons to early adoption of electric trucks. More likely than not, we’re going to start seeing significant improvements in EV technology in the next 10 years. That’ll put fleet managers in the best position to add electric pickup trucks to their fleet. Not only does the future of electric trucks speak to a more eco-friendly future, but it also has the capabilities for stronger, faster and tougher vehicles.