Will the future of semi-trucks be electrically powered?

The future of semi-trucks will probably move toward at least some electrically powered vehicles. A variety of complex factors affects how quickly this change will occur in the United States and around the world. It may happen faster in countries actively banning gas and diesel fueled trucks. Battery size, weight of electric trucks, and availability of charging stations will all impact the roll-out speed.

Electrical semi-truck

Trucking Industry

The trucking industry plays a huge role in the economy of our modern society. Manufacturing and distribution companies rely on trucking companies to not only get products from one place to another but also to play a key part in inventory management systems. Additionally, trucking companies must ensure that their truck parts, such as tires, are in strong working order so that customers receive their supplies quickly.

However, semi-trucks also consume a great deal of fuel and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Although technology in recent years has made semi-trucks more fuel efficient and more environmentally friendly, electrically powered trucks can make further strides in this arena. Additionally, implementing professional training for truck drivers can ease communication between team members and ensure longevity within your organization.

Front Runners in Electrically Powered Semi-Trucks

Several manufacturers are scrambling to develop the technology to address this growing demand for electric semi-trucks. Here are a few front-runners:

Nikola Motor Company

This American company is working fully electric-hydrogen powered semi-trucks. It’s currently promising that trucks will be able to travel between 500 and 1,000 miles per charge and that a charging session will take 20 minutes. Sleeper trucks and day trucks are in the making.

Tesla

Well-known for producing electric vehicles, Tesla is designing an electric semi with four motors, which is supposed to accelerate to 60 miles per hour in five second. The Tesla Semi should have a 500-mile range between charges.

Other Factors

Although the prospect of electrically powered semi trucks is exciting, many other factors must be hammered out for it to become a workable reality. For example a network of charging stations must be created to support the routes of these electrically powered semis.

In addition, business will need to revamp and adjust their fleet maintenance systems to manage the upkeep and maintenance needs of these electrically powered semi-trucks.

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