The continuous updates in electric semi-trucking technology are definitely taking the industry by storm and the idea is becoming one of the most controversial topics of recent times. The constant release of new models and lucrative features, such as improvements in range, performance, and efficiency, make it an increasingly attractive option for all truckers. However, for others, it causes great worry with the potential of new mandates and regulations increasing with environmental technology.
Increased Range, Performance, and Charging Capabilities
- Electric semi-trucks are becoming more powerful and efficient. For example, the Nikola Tre BEV is said to have 1,000 horsepower and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than 5 seconds. This makes electric semi-trucks not only more environmentally friendly, but also more enjoyable to drive.
- They are also becoming increasingly capable of traveling long distances on a single charge. For example, the Tesla Semi is expected to have a range of up to 500 miles, while the Volvo VNR Electric can travel up to 275 miles on a single charge. This makes electric semi-trucks more practical for long-haul trucking operations.
- Charging infrastructure is improving rapidly, with new high-power chargers being deployed all over the world. This will make it easier and faster for trucking companies to charge their electric vehicles.
Upcoming Models, Features, and Upgrades
- Several new electric semi-truck models are expected to be released in the next year or two, including the Tesla Semi, the Volvo VNR Electric, and the Nikola Tre BEV. These trucks will offer a variety of features and capabilities, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.
- Electric semi-trucks are being equipped with a variety of new features, such as self-driving capabilities, advanced safety systems, and in-cab amenities. These features are being introduced to help to improve the safety, efficiency, and comfort of all trucking operations.
- Vehicle-to-grid technology that will allow electric semi-trucks to discharge energy back to the grid is being developed to help stabilize the grid and significantly reduce electricity costs.
- Manufacturers are working to develop more aerodynamic designs for these vehicles to help improve overall range and efficiency.
Controversy In Electric Trucking
Although these features and commodities sound fantastic, there is no doubt that there are many concerns and challenges that come with the idea of electric semi-trucking. One of these being the lack of charging infrastructure in place, which limits the range and flexibility of electric trucks. Unlike diesel trucks, which can refuel at practically any gas station, electric trucks need to find a compatible charging station that can provide enough power and time to recharge their large batteries. Meaning that electric trucking operations would face the possible pain of heavy detours or delays because they are limited to very few charging stations. Another concern, and probably the most alarming for many, is the potential for new regulations or mandates to be introduced in light of this new “environment friendly” technology. Similarly to when the ELD was released, how shortly after an ELD mandate was established, many truckers worry that the same could happen with electric semi-trucks. If this were to occur, it could result in being very costly for some truckers and trucking operations, whether its forcing them to go electric, or heavily increasing gas taxes.
Conclusions
Being an emerging technology, electric semi-trucks have the potential to transform the industry and reduce the impact of gas omissions. However, at the same time it is a concept that faces many obstacles and uncertainties that it has to overcome so that it can be viable and competitive. Since this technology is still in development, more research, innovation, and collaboration across the industry is needed before it can be adopted. Electric semi-trucking is not a silver bullet, but a promising option that if made reliable and affordable definitely warrants your close attention and possible support.