compared to traditional trucks.It is preferred because it offers While the risk of failure and the repair cost of a traditional internal combustion truck is quite high, the situation is different with electric trucks. Electric trucks have a lower risk of failure because they have fewer parts. Moreover, the fuel efficiency of electric trucks is extremely attractive for logistics companies!
1. What is Electric Truck?
Electric trucks are trucks that run on electricity. Electric trucks, which are used in transportation activities between cities and countries, contribute to reducing the global carbon footprint by having zero carbon emissions. It is predicted that both general public health and financial concerns of the logistics sector will be among the biggest factors in the transition to electric trucks.
Electric trucks, a new and valuable investment in the logistics industry, were introduced to the market by many manufacturers in 2021 and 2022. The demand for electric trucks shows that production in this direction will increase gradually and in the near future, all fleets that play a role in transportation activities will turn to electric versions.
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2. What are the Features of Electric Trucks?
- Electric trucks are powered by electricity, unlike traditional trucks.
- Electric trucks, which do not have a diesel engine or a gasoline engine, only have an electric motor.
- Electric trucks are refueled via a charging unit and a charging cable.
- Electric trucks that travel long distances are equipped with efficient charging systems in order to continue on their way without slowing down . In this regard, many countries are increasing the number of electric charging stations .
- Electric trucks are a more efficient option than internal combustion engine trucks. For example; An electric truck consumes about 15-20 percent less energy when braking or idling than conventional trucks.
- Despite rising fossil fuel prices, electric trucks have more affordable energy costs.
- Since electric trucks do not have an internal combustion engine, they do not need oil changes or auto filters. Therefore, it has less maintenance responsibility and expense.
- Countries provide various tax advantages for switching to electric trucks in order to reduce their global carbon footprint.
3. Who are the Electric Truck Manufacturers?
Many of the well-known truck manufacturers are also making a name for themselves in the electric truck market. For example; DAF, the Dutch automobile and commercial vehicle manufacturer, has introduced many electric trucks to the market since 2021. Tesla, one of the pioneers of the electric vehicle market, is developing projects that will revolutionize the field of electric trucks. Semi Truck developed by Tesla accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 20 seconds. Capable of traveling 800 kilometers on a single charge, this model recovers approximately 70 percent of its energy in just 30 minutes of charging.
In addition, many famous automotive manufacturers such as Volvo, Mercedes Benz and FAW Group are also making a name for themselves in the electric truck market. German logistics company DHL launched a total of 44 new electric trucks and trucks on European routes with the agreement it signed with Volvo in May 2022. It can be easily predicted that electric truck manufacturers and production will increase even more by 2023 and beyond.
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4. What are the Electric Truck Prices?
Electric vehicles are more expensive than traditional vehicles with their advanced technology and high equipment. The situation is the same with electric trucks. The price of the Tesla Semi Truck is 150 thousand dollars for vehicles with a range of 500 kilometers, while it is 180 thousand dollars for vehicles with a range of 800 kilometers. Other electric truck prices are also in a similar range. In addition, most electric truck manufacturers cannot yet offer a clear price for these vehicles. However, due to the fact that electric trucks are in the premium segment, it is easily foreseen that they will be offered to the market at high prices.
5. The Importance and Future of Electric Trucks in the Logistics Industry
Electric trucks will replace conventional trucks in most of the world in the next 15 years. It is said that one third of the trucks in North America, Europe and China will consist of electric trucks, especially as soon as 2030. It is estimated that these changes will come to life very quickly, with the whole world's great dedication to reducing carbon emissions.
Electric trucks, which help to make the logistics sector more sustainable, are in great demand because they reduce costs in the sector. While fossil fuel is getting more and more expensive all over the world, electric trucks are seen as a savior in this regard. Although electric trucks are a more advantageous choice compared to traditional trucks when they are examined in terms of fuel and maintenance costs, the sales prices of these vehicles are beyond the reach of every business. Despite this, electric trucks remain a hope for sustainable logistics.