Why should you consider buying an electric truck? What are the available options?

Introduction

India has set an ambitious target to electrify 70% of all commercial vehicle sales by 2030.  Source

India has a network of 934 active public charging stations. Source

Fully electric vehicles (EVs) or full electric trucks with zero tailpipe emissions are here! Should your next truck be an electric one? Let us take you through the advantages of a full EV truck, factors to consider if you were to buy electric truck and the available options in India.

To begin with, What is an Electric Truck?

An electric truck is an electric vehicle powered by batteries designed to transport cargo or carry payloads as opposed to traditional trucks that rely on internal combustion engines running on fossil fuels. 

What are the advantages offered by Electric Vehicles?

Electric Vehicles are – 

• Environmentally friendly
• Super quiet
• Easier to maintain

If you opt for an Electric vehicle, you can expect – 

• Lower running & maintenance costs
• Lower  operating costs
• Financial incentives
• Tax benefits

Let us explore these advantages in detail.

Electric vehicles (EVs) are better for the environment than traditional fuel-powered ones. They emit fewer air pollutants than petrol or diesel cars. This is after taking into account their production and the required electricity generation. With zero tailpipe emissions, driving an electric vehicle helps reduce your carbon footprint.

Electric vehicles are not only eco-friendly but also are very convenient to drive.They don’t have gears, and this ensures an excellent driving experience with no complicated controls.

Electric vehicles are remarkably quiet, reducing noise pollution compared to traditional vehicles. The electric motor operates silently, and you would feel the need to check the instrument panel to verify if it’s switched on. Manufacturers add sounds to ensure the safety of pedestrians.

When it comes to running costs, electric vehicles take the lead! Electric vehicles have significantly lower running costs compared to petrol or diesel vehicles. How is this made possible? No fuel is required, so you save money on petrol or diesel. Electric vehicles are more efficient. This makes charging an electric vehicle cheaper than filling petrol or diesel and helps save running costs.

Another advantage is the lower maintenance costs. With fewer moving parts compared to internal combustion vehicles, there’s less to maintain and repair. Electric motors have far fewer components that require attention, eliminating the need for oil changes, new spark plugs, or fuel filters. The regenerative braking system extends the lifespan of brake pads by utilising the electric motor for deceleration. These factors contribute to lower overall maintenance costs.

Tax and financial benefits are also available for electric vehicle owners. Registration fees and road taxes are typically lower for electric vehicles compared to petrol or diesel vehicles. Additionally, governments offer various policies and incentives that vary by state, further reducing the financial burden of owning an electric vehicle.

By considering an electric vehicle, you not only benefit from lower running and maintenance costs but also contribute to a cleaner environment. With tax incentives and a smooth, quiet driving experience, electric vehicles offer a sustainable transportation solution.

What are the types of electric vehicles?

Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV)

• Fully powered by electricity
• More efficient than hybrid and plug-in hybrids
• If you have access to charging stations and require the EV to be driven within a limited range, a BEV would be a good choice.

Hybrid Electric Vehicle: 

• Uses both the internal combustion engine and the battery-powered motor powertrain. The combustion engine is used to drive and charge when the battery is empty. 
• Fully electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles are more efficient than Hybrid Electric Vehicles
• If you require your truck to be frequently used for driving long distances and do not have easy access to charging infrastructure, HEVs would be suitable for you.
  

Plug-in Hybrid

• Uses both an internal combustion engine and a battery charged externally.
• Plug-in Hybrid vehicles are more efficient than HEVs (Hybrid Electric Vehicles) but less efficient than BEVs (Battery Electric Vehicles).
• If you are looking for a flexible choice that offers electric driving convenience while providing the option for longer journeys without worrying, Plug-in Hybrid would be the way to go.

In summary, Each type offers unique benefits, so choose the one that aligns with your business requirements.  Remember to consider charging infrastructure availability and range requirements when deciding on the type of electric vehicle.

Top Electric Truck options to consider – 

Mahindra Treo Zor Dv

Mahindra Treo Zor Dv is a three-wheeled electric cargo vehicle designed for short-distance logistics operations.

Technical Features

• Payload: 500 kg
• Charging Time: 3 h, 50 min
• Range: 80 km
• Top Speed: 50 km/h
• Warranty: 3 years or 80000 km
• Battery Type: Lithium-ion, 48 V

USP

• Standard warranty of 3 years or 80000 km and battery life of 1,50,000 km.
• A clutchless automatic transmission with a noiseless & vibration-free ride which translates to Fatigue-Free Driving.
• Enhanced Protection against dust & water entry using an Advanced IP67-rated motor.

Eicher Pro 2049 EV Truck
Eicher Pro 2049 EV Truck is a light-duty electric truck designed for intra-city cargo transportation. It is suitable for small and medium-scale businesses and can help reduce operational costs and environmental impact.

Technical Features

• Payload: kg
• Charging Time: N/A
• Range: 174 km
• Top Speed: 80 km/h
• Warranty: 1 year (unlimited km) on Vehicle, 3 years (unlimited km) on Engine and Gearbox
• Battery: 12 V

USP

• Highly suitable for sustainable first and last-mile delivery solutions.
• Ergonomically designed interior with an aspirational design along with a world-class cabin. 
• Equipped with a modern dual-tone instrument panel, tilt and telescopic steering and high-capacity battery.

Tata ULTRA T.7 Electric Truck

ULTRA T.7 Electric Truck is a medium-duty electric truck designed for commercial and industrial applications. It is suitable for long-distance logistics operations and can help reduce carbon emissions and operational costs.

Technical Features

• Payload: 3692 kg- 4935 Kg
• Charging Time: 2 hours
• Range: 100 km
• Top Speed: 80 km/h
• Warranty: 3 years or 3 lakh km

USP

• Ergonomically designed interiors and features enhance driving pleasure and considerably reduce fatigue.
• Easier manoeuvrability delivered through a narrow aerodynamic cabin and sharp turning circle radius (6.95 mt).
• Direct Drive Technology 

Piaggio Ape E Xtra FX

Apé E-Xtra by Piaggio comes with a 6ft long deck made to help you grow your business with faster deliveries.

Technical Features

• Payload: 500 kg
• Charging Time: 3 h 45 min
• Range: 90 ± 5 km
• Top Speed: 45 km/h
• Warranty: 3 years
• Battery Type: Lithium-ion, 48 V

USP

• Enhanced Pickup allowing it to accelerate quickly and efficiently and a boost mode to provide an extra burst of power when needed.
• Higher grade ability with hill hold assist, meaning it can easily climb steep inclines and handle challenging terrains.
• Low noise and low vibration create a peaceful and comfortable driving experience.

Conclusion

We have gone through the available options for electric vehicles in India, their features and USPs. We have also looked at the factors to consider if you want to buy an electric vehicle.

If you have any additional questions or queries about the transport and logistics industry, Contact our team at Vahak. Vahak is an online transport community that brings together transport company owners and truck drivers to help them connect with businesses or load owners.