At the risk of repeating what you may have previously heard, read or even said yourself, electric vehicles are a prime example. I have driven a number of them and admit to being a fan. No, they aren’t perfect – and they take a bit of getting used to – but, on the whole, I now prefer them to driving a petrol or diesel car.
In the commercial vehicle world, it’s a different matter, of course. It is taking much longer for drivers to come around to the fact that electrification is the way forward. And, let’s face it, with very good reason. At the lighter end of the market, many van drivers complain about not being able to charge their vehicle if they don’t have off-street parking as well as the relatively low ranges available. But with trucks, the issues are laid bare even more noticeably. They require more batteries, which not only takes up more space and weight, but the charging times can be longer. Then, there are the challenges over long-haul trucks – can they really go the distance? And not forgetting the servicing, maintenance and – dare I say – repairs. Looking after an electric truck requires a whole new set of rules.
So, some operators might be wary, technicians concerned and drivers unsure. And yet the vehicle manufacturers are charging ahead with new battery-powered beauties, a selection of which features in this issue, including the latest from Mercedes-Benz and MAN. Alongside details of those vehicles, experts from Scania and Renault Trucks are able to reassure you and offer some perspective about what is required to smoothly transition from diesel to electric. In short, preparation is key, along with a willingness to make it work for your operation.
There’s also a look at how coach operators might fare with electrified fleets – a different proposition to that of hauliers but, again, one that can be overcome with the right approach.
There are likely be other alternatives to diesel – such as hydrogen – in the future, so now is a good time to at least think about considering them. You might be surprised!
Transport Engineer editor John Challen
