The next generation of trucking innovation will see a strong migration to electric-based vehicles. As this technology advances, coupled with environmental and regulatory pressure, the US trucking market will experience an industrial revolution not seen since the early 1900’s when many innovations catapulted industry into better, faster, and less expensive goods and services. 

So, what do we know about these trucks, and where will they take us… 

A Heavy-Duty Electric Vehicle (HDEV) truck is a commercial transportation vehicle powered by electricity rather than diesel fuel. They typically fall into the Class 8 category, which includes tractor-trailers, freight trucks, and other large commercial vehicles. HDEV trucks offer several benefits over diesel trucks, such as lower operating costs, reduced maintenance, and improved environmental performance. They are equipped with large battery packs and powerful electric motors that provide the power needed for heavy loads over long distances. HDEV trucks have a range of up to 500 miles on a single charge, depending on battery size and load weight.  

The Major Players 

There are several companies that engage in the development and production of electric commercial heavy-duty trucks, including: 

Tesla 

BYD 

Nikola Motors 

Volvo 

Daimler Trucks (Freightliner) 

Kenworth 

Peterbilt 

How do Electric Trucks Differ from Diesel Trucks? 

1. Power Source

HDEV trucks are powered by electric batteries, while Class 8 diesel trucks are powered by diesel fuel. 

2. Performance

HDEV have instant torque and a smooth, quiet ride, while diesel trucks typically have more horsepower and offer a rougher ride. 

3. Maintenance

HDEV have fewer moving parts and require less maintenance than diesel trucks. 

4. Emissions

HDEV emit no pollutants, while diesel trucks emit harmful particulate matter, nitrogen oxides (NOx), and carbon dioxide (CO2). 

5. Cost of Operation

The cost of operating a HDEV truck is typically lower than a diesel truck due to lower energy costs and less maintenance requirements. 

6. Range

HDEV trucks have a limited range compared to diesel trucks, which requires a charging infrastructure for efficient operation. 

Charging Infrastructure 

The biggest challenge in the transition to HDEV trucking is the development of a reliable and accessible charging infrastructure. The high cost of installation and maintenance is a major obstacle, requiring significant investments from governments, trucking companies, and energy companies. Innovative companies, such as Tesla, are expanding their Supercharger network to include high-power charging stations for electric trucks. Other companies, such as Proterra, FastCharge, and Ionity, are building fast-charging networks along major trucking routes.  

Research universities are also playing a role in the development of the electric infrastructure, including new charging technologies, such as wireless charging and battery-swapping stations. Alternative charging methods, such as wireless charging and hydrogen fuel cells, are also in development and have the potential to revolutionize the way electric trucks are charged. The HDEV trucking infrastructure is expected to develop rapidly over the next 5 to 10 years. However, it will take time and continued investments in all aspects of the electrification strategy, including charging infrastructure, grid infrastructure, distribution, and energy storage. 

Increasing the Lifespan of Batteries 

The key component in an HDEV is the battery. Battery technology is taking leaps and bounds, and the further this technology moves down the road, the lighter, cheaper, and more durable the trucks will become. 

Battery tech for HDEV trucks is evolving, focusing on more efficient, cost-effective batteries. Li-ion batteries are currently the industry standard, but researchers are exploring new materials such as silicon and graphite. Li-ion batteries have improved over the past three decades, becoming lighter, more energy-dense, and allowing for longer distance travel. Scientists are working on improving battery longevity and safety. Companies like Tesla, Panasonic, and LG Chem have invested in Li-ion battery development. Challenges include reducing cost, improving safety, and increasing lifespan. Researchers are exploring solid-state batteries, which offer higher energy density and improved safety compared to Li-ion batteries. 

In conclusion, battery technology will advance rapidly over the next 5 to 10 years as the demand for energy storage and electrification increases. Companies, innovators, and research universities will continue to drive advancements in battery technology, including improvements in energy density, charging time, and safety. These advances will help accelerate the transition to a more sustainable and electrified energy system and support the growth of renewable energy sources. The race to develop next-generation batteries is ongoing, and the impact on our lives and the environment will be profound.