Electric long-haul trucks could become a reality sooner – if there’s no driver
Smaller electric trucks are already on Australian city streets. As battery prices fall, bigger trucks will become viable – especially if there’s no driver.
Electric long-haul trucks in Australia might become a reality sooner than previously thought, thanks to the potential for driverless technology. Delivering freight is a costly endeavor for companies, as the wages paid to drivers contribute significantly to expenses. Heavy trucks are often encouraged to drive at the speed limit to minimize costs, but this can result in increased energy consumption and higher fuel use.
Driverless technology could alter this economic equation for electric trucks. According to the author’s research, autonomous diesel trucks would not be as affected by longer travel times, while autonomous electric trucks could benefit from slower, more energy-efficient trips. These trucks could potentially operate at 80 km/h, reducing their energy consumption and allowing them to carry more freight.
The author’s modeling indicates that autonomous electric trucks would be more financially appealing around Sydney to Melbourne, cutting battery prices by A$75/kWh. However, these benefits would require charging at depots instead of paying higher rates on the Hume Freeway. Autonomous trucks are likely best suited for medium-length routes outside urban areas due to safety and regulatory considerations.
Written by urgent.news from The Conversation AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
