Can Electric Trucks Be More Cost-Effective Than Diesel Ones? New Study Debunks Assumptions

New research from Sweden’s Chalmers University of Technology challenges common beliefs by demonstrating that electricity can be a more cost-effective option than diesel for heavy-duty vehicles. 

What Happened: The study, based on data from an actual haulage company in Helsingborg, compared two battery sizes for electric trucks. While the larger battery reduced load capacity, it eliminated the need for on-road charging. 

Conversely, the smaller battery allowed for more load capacity but required quick charging during transit.

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Battery Size Matters: However, the study’s author, doctoral student Johannes Karlsson, believes that with appropriately sized batteries, it is possible to electrify heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) at a cost equal to or even lower than that of diesel engines. 

The ideal battery size, according to the research, depends on factors such as cargo weight, driving patterns, and fast charging costs. Karlsson stated, “A realistic future scenario is that HGVs will have different battery sizes.”

Other Takeaways: Additionally, the study highlights the long-term benefits of investing in batteries and charging equipment, as commercial vehicles typically undergo over 1400 charges throughout their lifespan. Given this perspective, the economic feasibility of such investments becomes more apparent.

Why It Matters: This research carries significant implications as various automakers, including Tesla Inc TSLA, BYD Co Ltd BYDDY BYDDF, NikolaCorp NKLA, TuSimple Holdings Inc TSP, Volvo AB VLVLY and Mercedes-Benz Group AG MBGAF, are currently producing medium and heavy-duty electric trucks. 

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, trucks are projected to represent 69% of all vehicles by 2050, with electric trucks accounting for less than 10% of the total.

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