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Clean Freight Consultants president, Trevor Van Egmond, bought a Battery Electric Semi Truck with his former employer.

“It’s an awesome truck, and we look forward to testing in Canada’s environment, the truck is ideal for regional pick up and drop off scenarios, due to limited range and the charging infrastructure required. There is no doubt that battery electric is needed to reduce our carbon footprint moving forward.”

Trevor Van Egmond, cleanfreight.ca

The decision for a trucking company to purchase a battery electric semi truck depends on a variety of factors and considerations. While there are challenges associated with electric trucks, they might still make sense for some companies under certain circumstances.

Some factors to consider:

Cost:

Yes, battery electric semi trucks can have a higher upfront cost compared to traditional diesel trucks. However, it’s important to consider the total cost of ownership (TCO) over the vehicle’s lifespan. Electric trucks generally have lower operating and maintenance costs, including savings on fuel, maintenance, and potential government incentives.

Infrastructure:

Lack of charging infrastructure is indeed a concern for electric vehicles, including electric semis. However, the charging infrastructure for electric vehicles is rapidly expanding, and many governments and private companies are investing in building out charging networks, particularly along major trucking routes. Depending on the routes a trucking company operates, there might be adequate charging options available or in development.

Cold Climates:

Cold weather can affect battery performance and range. However, advancements in battery technology are addressing this issue. Some electric truck manufacturers are developing thermal management systems to ensure consistent battery performance in a variety of weather conditions. It’s important for a trucking company to assess whether the electric truck’s range and performance meet their needs in their specific climate.

Environmental Considerations:

Electric trucks produce zero tailpipe emissions, which can contribute to a company’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and meet environmental regulations. This could be a significant factor for companies looking to position themselves as environmentally responsible.

Regulations and Incentives:

Many regions are implementing stricter emissions regulations and offering incentives for the adoption of electric vehicles. These factors could impact a trucking company’s decision by providing financial or regulatory benefits for switching to electric.

Market Trends and Public Perception:

As consumer and regulatory demands for cleaner transportation options increase, there could be potential benefits in terms of market positioning and public relations for a trucking company that adopts electric trucks.

Ultimately, the decision to purchase battery electric semi trucks depends on the specific circumstances of the trucking company, including their operational needs, available infrastructure, financial situation, and commitment to sustainability. It’s important to conduct a thorough analysis of the TCO, potential benefits, and challenges before making a decision. Companies might also consider starting with a smaller fleet of electric trucks to gain experience and evaluate their performance in real-world conditions.

Clean Freight Consultants can assist in developing a real strategy! Get connected with us info@cleanfreight.ca