The eTruck is coming: How to make the transition a success

The battery-powered electric truck (eTruck) is gaining momentum, both in local and long-distance transportation. What was initially viewed with skepticism is now establishing itself more and more as a serious alternative to diesel trucks. More and more powerful batteries are becoming available and manufacturers now offer a wide range of light and heavy-duty eTrucks. Registration figures from Europe confirm that the electrification of road freight transport is becoming more and more suitable for everyday use. Freight forwarders and logistics companies have recognized that the decarbonization of their fleets - as required by the EU - can only be achieved with electric vehicles. In addition, more and more customers are demanding emission-free transport solutions in order to improve their own carbon footprint.

Major restructuring is required

From the fleet manager's point of view, everything speaks for a rapid switch to electromobility. But one obstacle remains: the range. While a diesel truck can easily drive up to 5,000 kilometers without refueling, an eTruck has to stop at a charging station after 500 kilometers at the latest. “Operating an eTruck fleet definitely requires a major restructuring,” confirms Nina Schäperklaus, Product Manager DC Charging Solutions at DKV Mobility. “But with an experienced partner at your side, even small and medium-sized companies can master the changeover and benefit from the advantages.”

A well-planned charging infrastructure at your own location is essential. For delivery vans and lighter trucks in local and regional transport, it is often sufficient to charge the batteries overnight. “Heavy trucks in long-distance transport should ideally also leave the depot fully charged,” adds Schäperklaus. “This is because the company's own electricity is usually cheaper than that from external providers.”

Operating your own charging infrastructure profitably

Properly dimensioned and intelligently operated, an in-house charging infrastructure can offer additional benefits. “It can be profitable to allow guests and suppliers to charge on your own premises,” says Schäperklaus. Different prices can even be set for different user groups.

One problem today can still be the limited amount of electricity that is often only made available by the grid operator. But there are solutions here too. “Even if only 200 kW is available, it makes sense to install a 200 kW fast charging station and three stations with 22 kW. If a truck needs to be charged urgently, I prioritize the fast charging station and throttle back the smaller charging stations - visitors then charge more slowly,” explains Schäperklaus.

Charging strategies for the long journey

The path to a profitable charging infrastructure must be carefully planned. Experienced service providers such as DKV Mobility provide support in planning and implementing the charging infrastructure. In long-distance transport, there is an additional factor: a clever charging strategy is crucial here, as planning with eTrucks is naturally more complex than with diesel trucks. “The public charging infrastructure is largely available today, but is not yet fully designed for the special requirements of trucks,” emphasizes Schäperklaus. “With the right know-how and the right tools, even long routes can be planned reliably.” The DKV Mobility app shows available charging points from the DKV Mobility network. From over 827,000 charging points across Europe, you can select the stations that are suitable for eTrucks and can be accessed.”

eTruck is catching on

Many viable solutions are already available, and eTrucks have the potential to become a real alternative to diesel. However, planning and implementation in the fleet still requires a well-thought-out approach. The market is constantly evolving and the aim is to make charging as straightforward in the future as refueling is today.

So there are many reasons to focus on electromobility now and to bring experienced partners on board for the transition. “The electric truck is here and will catch on faster than the battery-electric car. With the right strategy and the right partners, companies can overcome these challenges and fully exploit the benefits of electromobility,” Schäperklaus is certain.