Abstract:

Electric trucks (eTrucks) are entering markets worldwide. As these vehicles are deployed, fleet operators must determine potential use cases, such as last-mile delivery, and select the best charging strategies. The authors have identified the use cases most likely to electrify first and the most viable charging strategies based on cost, practicality, and other factors. The three use cases listed in this article are: first, LCVs making last-mile deliveries; second, medium-duty vehicles distributing dry goods; and third, heavy-duty vehicles doing long-distance point-to-point transport. In this study, five potential e-Truck charging methods are discussed i.e. Overnight only, Overnight and mid-route1, Mid-route1 only, Battery swapping, and Overhead catenary charging. Overnight-only charging and overnight and midroute charging are most feasible. Other choices will remain niche applications or are commercially impractical. To encourage strong momentum for eTrucks, the extended ecosystem of OEMs, suppliers, fleets, service providers, and municipalities must collaborate with regulators to ensure charging infrastructure  development keeps up with eTruck demand.