Debate worth having: should you convert your fleet to electric vehicles?

Trucking is at a crossroads. In one direction is the allure of zero-emissions transportation. In the other, genuine concerns whether e-trucks fulfil the demanding needs of businesses.

Range, infrastructure and cost are the main barriers to entry. But while the technology to address these issues is developing rapidly, many fleets are still apprehensive about making the switch to electric.

In a recent survey by Commercial Truck Trader, 79% of people interviewed said they would never consider adding an electric truck to their fleet.

However, as governments and truck manufacturers push forward with electric – and with many customer contracts dependent on sustainable transportation solutions – fleets can’t keep their heads in the sand much longer.

To find out what the most pressing arguments for and against electric trucks are, HERE360 spoke to Simon Hastelow, editor of Trucking Magazine.

The case for electric trucks

“Truck drivers and businesses hold mixed views on e-trucks. Drivers appreciate the quieter, smoother driving experience and reduced vibration, and businesses are attracted to the potential for lower fuel and maintenance costs.

“E-trucks are ideal for urban and regional deliveries where routes are predictable and short, and there are opportunities for regular charging: vehicles can return to a central depot for overnight charging. In these cases, current battery ranges are sufficient to complete daily routes without significant disruptions. Their quiet operation and zero tailpipe emissions make them perfect for city centers with low-emission zones.

“The benefits of e-trucks include lower emissions, reduced fuel costs and quieter operation. E-trucks contribute to environmental goals and compliance with increasingly stringent emissions regulations by cutting greenhouse gas emissions.

“In terms of operating expenses, electric vehicles generally require less maintenance, with fewer moving parts and no reliance on diesel fuel, which can result in significant long-term savings. Additionally, e-trucks provide a smoother, quieter ride, which is more comfortable for drivers and reduces noise pollution in urban areas, making them ideal for city deliveries.

“E-trucks offer a different driving experience compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Drivers report that e-trucks are quieter, smoother, and have quicker acceleration due to the instant torque provided by electric motors. There is also less vibration and noise, which can reduce driver fatigue on long shifts.

“Truck manufacturers are investing in improving battery technology, expanding vehicle ranges, and creating more efficient charging solutions. They are also working on integrating advanced telematics systems that help fleet operators monitor energy use, optimize routes and maintain battery health.

“Some manufacturers collaborate with energy providers to build dedicated charging infrastructure, while others offer training programs to help drivers transition to electric vehicles. Additionally, manufacturers are addressing concerns about the total cost of ownership by providing leasing options, which spread the upfront costs and make e-trucks more accessible for smaller businesses.”

The case against electric trucks

“The slow adoption of e-trucks is primarily due to high upfront costs, limited charging infrastructure and concerns over vehicle range. Businesses are hesitant to invest in e-trucks without a clear return on investment, especially considering the current lack of supporting infrastructure.

“Additionally, ongoing uncertainty around government incentives and regulations has made it difficult for operators to plan long-term confidently. Fleet operators are also concerned about the total cost of ownership, including maintenance and battery lifespan, which has contributed to the cautious approach towards e-truck adoption.

“For longer haul, range anxiety becomes a bigger issue as the need for recharging becomes more frequent, and the lack of fast-charging infrastructure can lead to delays. While short-haul use cases are more practical, the range remains challenging for broader adoption.

“E-trucks are also less suited for routes that involve heavy loads over long distances, where the need for frequent recharging can create inefficiencies. As battery technology improves, some of these weaknesses may be mitigated, but long-haul remains a challenge.

“Developing an effective charging strategy is crucial for alleviating concerns around e-truck adoption. A well-planned charging strategy ensures that trucks can operate efficiently without long downtimes for recharging, addressing one of the primary barriers to e-truck adoption.

“Companies must assess whether depot-based charging, public infrastructure or a mix of both suits their operations. Fast charging capabilities can also help reduce range anxiety and improve vehicle uptime. Businesses can optimize operations and minimize disruptions by planning recharging times to coincide with regular vehicle downtime.

“The lack of widespread, fast-charging stations further complicates logistics planning. Additionally, concerns about the environmental impact of battery production and questions surrounding battery disposal remain unresolved.

“Fleet managers may need to invest further in telematics systems that remotely monitor battery health and energy use, making the shift to e-trucks a substantial undertaking for most companies.”

“Drivers also require training on new vehicle handling and charging processes. The driving controls are generally similar, but regenerative braking is a new feature that drivers need to adjust to, as it affects deceleration differently than traditional trucks.

“While e-trucks are gaining traction for short-haul and regional use, hydrogen-powered trucks are increasingly considered a more viable solution for long-haul operations. Hydrogen fuel cells offer longer ranges and faster refueling times compared to current battery technologies, making them better suited for heavy-duty, long-distance routes.

“However, hydrogen infrastructure development is still in its infancy, and the high cost of hydrogen production remains a barrier. Ultimately, a mix of e-trucks for short-haul and hydrogen for long-haul may emerge as the most efficient solution for the future of the haulage industry.”

What do you think?

As our expert has concluded, there are many pros and cons to consider before implementing electric trucks in your fleet. And the use case (long-haul versus short-haul) will determine the viability of e-trucks for your operations. 

Discover how HERE Technologies can help you streamline the adoption of electric trucks, from routing to charging.