Back To MainMedium- and heavy-duty trucks represent a significant portion of fuel consumption in the United States, using 26% of the nation’s fuel while constituting only 4% of the total vehicle population. Additionally, greenhouse gas emissions from these vehicles are rising at a faster pace than those from light-duty vehicles.
The commercial trucking industry is at a crossroad. As fleet managers struggle with rising fuel costs, stringent emissions regulations, and the need for more efficient operations, the choice between traditional diesel trucks and innovative electric box trucks has become a critical decision. While diesel box trucks have long been the backbone of fleets, their disadvantages are becoming increasingly evident in today’s fast-evolving landscape.
The adoption of electric powertrains presents a promising solution to reduce emissions and move towards decarbonizing this essential segment of the transportation industry. Electric box trucks offer a cleaner, quieter, and more cost-effective solution for modern fleet needs. From lower operating costs to substantial environmental benefits, they are quickly proving to be more than just a trend—they are the smarter choice for forward-thinking fleet managers.
The Misconception: People assume the higher upfront cost makes them unaffordable for fleets.
The Reality: While the initial MSRP price is often higher than a traditional diesel box truck due to the battery costs, sophisticated powertrain components, and lack of established supply chains, many states offer incentive programs that can help reduce the cost at point-of-sale or upon receiving proof of vehicle scrap. For example, programs such as California HVIP’s Innovative Small e-Fleets (ISEF) offer up to $138,000 in voucher savings per Class 5 vehicle. Additionally, with the federal Commercial Clean Vehicle Credit, you can save up to $40,000 in the form of a tax credit. Overall, considering incentive program vouchers, combined with operating and maintenance savings over their lifetime, electric box trucks are often more cost-effective than their diesel alternatives.
The Misconception: Many believe electric box trucks cannot travel far enough for commercial use.
The Reality: Modern electric box trucks, like the SEA 5e, offer ranges up to 140 miles, which is sufficient for most urban and regional delivery routes. With predictable route planning, range limitations are rarely an issue for last-mile and medium-duty applications.
The Misconception: Critics argue that charging times will disrupt operations.
The Reality: Charging infrastructure is improving rapidly, and many electric box trucks can be charged overnight at depot locations. Fast-charging options are also increasingly available, allowing for partial recharges during breaks or downtime. Class 5 electric box trucks, such as the SEA 5e offer flexible charging options to accommodate various operational needs:
Research indicates that Medium- and Heavy-Duty EVs can achieve significant greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reductions over their lifetimes compared to diesel vehicles. For instance, a study by the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) found that battery electric trucks emit 84% less GHGs over their lifetime compared to diesel trucks when combined with using only renewable electricity, even when accounting for the current average electricity grid mix.
Urban areas, where box trucks are frequently used for deliveries, benefit greatly from reduced vehicle emissions. This helps in combating smog and respiratory health issues in densely populated cities, resulting in an estimate of $5 billion in savings from avoided health outcomes between 2024 and 2046.
Electric box trucks set a new standard for efficiency, outperforming their diesel counterparts in fuel economy and TCO. For example, The SEA 5e electric box truck provides a significant cost-of-ownership advantage over diesel trucks. A benchmarking study revealed that the SEA 5e achieves an impressive 39.67 MPGe, compared to just 14.47 MPG for a comparable Class 5 diesel truck—reflecting a 174% improvement in efficiency, in turn translating to substantial fuel cost reductions.
According to PG&E, transitioning to an electric box truck from diesel can result in $0.13 per mile savings or roughly $3,250 annually for fleet owners driving 25,000 miles per year.
Electric box trucks offer a superior driving experience, making them particularly well-suited for urban and regional delivery routes. Their electric powertrains deliver instant torque, ensuring smooth and responsive acceleration—an invaluable feature in stop-and-go city traffic. Additionally, electric trucks operate far more quietly than their diesel counterparts, significantly reducing noise pollution and enabling late-night or early-morning deliveries in noise-restricted areas. With reduced vibrations and enhanced handling, electric box trucks provide a more comfortable ride for drivers, helping to reduce fatigue and improve both productivity and safety.
To find all available incentives within your state, please refer to the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Alternative Fuels Data Center.
