Eco-Friendly Electric Delivery Trucks Set to Match Diesel Prices by 2030
New research indicates that the cost of eco-friendly electric delivery trucks will align with their diesel counterparts by the year 2030. According to a recent study conducted by management consultancy Partners in Performance, companies investing in electric vehicle (EV) fleets could already experience cost savings. While the analysis found that commercial vans might take a bit longer to achieve price parity, the road ahead isn't as straightforward for larger freight trucks in Australia.
The report arrives on the heels of the Electric Vehicle Council's release of a warning, underscoring how a lack of government action, both federal and state, is hampering the sales of larger electric vehicles. Many of these trucks are unable to enter the Australian market due to restrictions on weight and size.
In terms of specific findings, the analysis pointed out that electric light rigid trucks, often used for transporting groceries and furniture, will achieve price parity with diesel vehicles prior to 2030. Similarly, commercial vans and utes are expected to reach this milestone between 2031 and 2032.
In fact, for companies purchasing electric trucks now and utilizing them for a minimum of a decade, a return on investment could be realized through reduced fuel and maintenance costs.
Yet, the study also highlighted challenges. It indicated that the trajectory for larger electric trucks, like those used for freight transport in Europe and the United States, is not as clear due to Australia's regulations. Many of these trucks exceed maximum width and axle weight limitations set forth by Australian Design Rules.
According to Innes, the primary question revolves around regulations rather than technology itself. Australian laws stipulate that trucks can carry up to 6.5 tonnes on their front axle and can be up to 2.5 meters wide. This disqualifies certain electric trucks, such as Volvo's EH Electric truck, from being used on Australian roads.
The Electric Vehicle Council's latest report on the state of electric vehicles, released earlier this week, disclosed that while 12 electric truck models are available in Australia, many are restricted from operation in the country. The report called on state and territory governments to advocate for regulatory changes.
"The Australian electric truck market is being held back by a lack of action by the Australian government in expediting the relaxation of mass and width limit restrictions on these vehicles," the report emphasized.
Source: The Driven
