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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.

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What are Diesel Trucks?
What are Electric Trucks?
Diesel Trucks in Long Haul Operations
Electric Trucks in Long Haul Operations
Diesel Trucks vs Electric Trucks
Emerging Trends
Future of Diesel & Electric Trucks
Frequently Asked Questions

What are Diesel Trucks?

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.

What are Electric Trucks?

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.

How are Diesel Trucks Used in Long-Haul Transportation?

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.

How are Electric Trucks Used in Long-Haul Transportation?

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.

Diesel Trucks vs Electric Trucks: Key Differences

Refer to the table below for a quick side-by-side comparison of diesel trucks and electric trucks:

Points of Difference	Diesel Trucks	Electric Trucks
Combustion Process	Runs with the help of internal combustion engines.	Runs on electric motors.
Emission Level	Produces high emission.	Produces zero emission.
Torque and Payload Capacity	Lower than electric trucks and usually depends on the vehicle’s engine capacity.	EV engines produce maximum torque even at low RPMs, resulting in a significantly higher payload capacity.
Fuel Consumption	More fuel-efficient than any other internal combustion engine truck or electric truck.	Lacks optimal efficiency due to technological limitations, although the EV sector is advancing rapidly.
Mileage	High mileage when the tank is filled to capacity.	Lower mileage compared to diesel trucks due to technological challenges.
Total Cost of Ownership	The cost of ownership is high in terms of variable costs like fuel prices, tyres, insurance policies, tax, etc. However, the upfront costs are low.	Running costs are comparatively lower than diesel trucks. However, electric trucks can incur a significant expense at the time of purchase.
Driver Experience and Comfort	Produces loud noises while driving which can be uncomfortable for drivers going on long-haul journeys. However, diesel trucks offer longer ranges, reducing the need for frequent refuelling stops.	Reputed for quieter operation, electric trucks are more comfortable for long-distance driving. Although, their range is less than that of diesel trucks, necessitating more frequent charging intervals.
Government Policies and Incentives	Registration fees are comparatively higher for diesel trucks. Additionally, there are no tax breaks or subsidies upon owning these vehicles.	Several government incentives help reduce the out-of-pocket expenditure while buying an electric truck.
Access to Fuel/ Charging Station	India has a fully developed network of gas stations supplying both petrol and diesel.	EV charging stations are expanding rapidly across the country.
Longevity	Diesel trucks are anticipated to have a shorter lifespan.	Typically expected to last longer compared to a diesel truck.

Emerging Trends in Diesel and Electric Trucks

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.

What is the Future of Diesel Trucks in Long Haul?

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.

What is the Future of Electric Trucks in Long Haul?

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.

FAQs about Diesel vs. Electric Trucks

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Do electric trucks have a future?

Electric trucks will have strong potential as a commercially successful freight-carrying option shortly. Even if they do not emerge as outright winners, they will pose a strong threat to nuclear-powered and hydrogen trucks as a more eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative.

What is the general life expectancy of an electric truck?

Most electric trucks are expected to last 10 to 20 years before the owner needs to arrange for battery replacement. However, this lifespan can vary from case to case based on an individual's driving habits and overall maintenance practices.

Are electric trucks suitable for long-haul transport?

Yes, electric trucks can be used for long-haul transportation, provided their routes have sufficient charging stations.

What are the main cost differences between diesel and electric trucks?

The major cost differences arise from the initial purchase price, fuel/electricity, and overall maintenance costs. Although diesel trucks are cheaper to own, they incur hefty maintenance and repair bills because they have more complex engines with many moving parts that can wear out faster.

Can electric trucks match diesel trucks in payload capacity?

A few modern electric trucks may match the payload capacity of conventional ICE trucks. However, their existing battery pack's weight can reduce the overall load-carrying capacity by a bit, thus making these trucks unsuitable for long-haul, heavy-duty transportation.

What is the lifespan of electric trucks compared to diesel trucks?

Electric trucks are generally expected to have a longer lifespan than diesel trucks, as they have fewer moving parts, which leads to less wear and tear.

Are diesel trucks being phased out?

In many countries, diesel trucks are slowly being phased out because of environmental pollution. For instance, the U.S. government has ruled that truck manufacturers may only sell zero-emission trucks in the country starting in 2036.