What are the Differences Between Diesel and Electric Trucks?

Owning best-in-class trucks is crucial for seamless operations and profitable outcomes as a fleet business operator. Thus, to address long-term sustainability challenges, business owners are now considering replacing internal combustion engine (ICE) trucks with electric trucks as transportation solutions evolve. 

Though the change will be gradual and slow, it is an essential step as truck emissions contribute to one-third of India's pollution. By retrofitting or introducing electric replacements, the Government anticipates lowering this sector's CO2 emissions by at least 2.8 gigatonnes by 2050.

So, should you consider upgrading your current fleet to electric trucks? Scroll down for a detailed comparison of electric trucks vs. diesel trucks, and make an informed decision.

Diesel trucks are commercial vehicles that use diesel engines to carry cargo from one place to another. They offer better fuel economy than petrol-powered trucks, as diesel is denser and can supply more energy per unit of volume. 

Thus, in addition to cost savings, diesel trucks provide operational efficiency as they require drivers to make fewer stops for refuelling during a journey.

An EV or electric truck runs on electricity instead of petrol or diesel. They are more economical to maintain than traditional trucks, loaded with a rechargeable battery pack and an electric motor. Moreover, they have a smaller ecological footprint as these trucks cause zero emissions. 

In India, the popularity of electric trucks is expected to increase rapidly as newer charging infrastructure continues to expand and the Government offers various tax benefits and subsidies. The primary aim behind all these initiatives is to encourage the full-fledged adoption of these green trucks.

• Easy Operation: A wide network of fueling stations and garages is spread across India, which makes operations much smoother.
• Longer Range: Currently, diesel trucks have a greater range than prevailing electric truck technologies.
• Load-carrying Capacity: Conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) trucks offer heavy payloads, making them ideal for various freight transport operations.

• More Profit: By slashing fuel costs, electric truck owners can substantially reduce the total cost of ownership (TCO) through potential cost-per-mile savings.
• Greater Convenience: With over 12,146 operational public EV charging stations across India, truck drivers can enjoy a more seamless driving experience. A 30-minute charge can now offer a range of 240-400 km.

By 2029, the Indian freight sector is predicted to reach a market value of USD 484.43 billion, expanding at an 8.83% CAGR. To identify the driving force behind this growth, you must analyse the following trends, which have already emerged and are expected to play an important role in the future.

• Advancements in Electric Truck Technology: Over the past few years, electric trucks have witnessed several innovations, such as higher-range batteries, regenerative braking, vehicle-to-grid systems, ADAS, and a developing public charging infrastructure. As a result, they are most likely to take over traditional ICE trucks shortly, influencing many operators to make the switch.
• Higher Involvement of Hybrid Trucks: Many long-haul operators are adopting hybrid trucks, which are cheaper and more compact than electric trucks. These vehicles use electric motors and internal combustion engines, which provide higher fuel efficiency, especially in stop-and-go traffic conditions. Also, due to the combination of two engine types, hybrid trucks provide lower emissions and higher mileage, which is an ideal way for companies to shift to electric trucks gradually. 
• Increased Role of Data and Analytics: As businesses rely on technologies to further reduce their costs, they will implement predictive analysis to anticipate demands and determine the shortest routes precisely. Thus, advanced real-time tracking devices are used to monitor operations and improve team productivity.

Diesel trucks are currently the primary choice for long-haul transportation. Yet, many emerging technologies like hydrogen fuel cells and electric batteries now offer eco-friendly alternatives. Although you can expect more efficiency and range from internal combustion engines, the increasingly expensive diesel fuel pushes for change. 

Electric trucks offer zero-emission operation with the additional benefits of relatively low operating costs, high load-bearing capacity, and greater longevity. However, their ranges and charging times are still restricted, which makes them the most appropriate for local transport and distribution operations.

With coordinated efforts across industries to increase the driving range of these vehicles and expand public charging infrastructure nationwide, electric trucks can become the preferred choice for long-haul transportation. 

Through this discussion about electric trucks vs diesel trucks, you now understand the pros and cons of each vehicle type. Thus, you can make an informed choice based on your business’s transportation requirements. However, all truck models are not the same and can come with varying performances and associated expenses. 

Thus, conduct thorough research and check the user reviews before making your final decision. 

Upgrading from diesel to electric trucks ultimately depends on your fleet’s operational needs, cost priorities, and long-term sustainability goals. While diesel trucks still lead in range and refuelling convenience, electric trucks offer quieter operation, lower running costs, and zero emissions. With rapid advancements in charging infrastructure and EV technology, electric trucks are becoming a viable option for future-ready fleets. Regardless of your choice, securing the right commercial vehicle insurance is essential to protect your assets and ensure uninterrupted operations.