Differences Between Electric Trucks and ICE Trucks for Freight Shipping

Operational, Functional, and Aesthetic Differences between Electric and ICE Trucks and How It Impacts Shipping 

The debate between electric trucks vs. internal combustion engine (ICE) trucks is gaining momentum as the logistics industry increasingly prioritizes sustainability.

Both types of vehicles present distinct operational, functional, and aesthetic differences that significantly impact freight shipping. In this article, we’ll dive into these differences, and examine their differences in weight, travel distance, freight-shipping efficiency, and overall environmental impact.

Operational Differences

Power Source and Fueling

Electric Trucks are powered by electric batteries, which means they require regular charging. The cost of electricity can vary based on location, time of day, and the source producing the energy. Charging infrastructure is expanding but remains less ubiquitous than fueling stations for ICE trucks.

ICE Trucks run on fossil fuels such as diesel or gasoline, with a well-established and widespread refueling infrastructure. Fuel prices, however, are volatile and can significantly impact operational costs. Fuel prices are one of the main reasons freight quotes are only valid between a few days and a month at maximum.

Range and Distance

Typically, electric trucks have a shorter range, capable of traveling between 100 to 500 miles on a single charge, depending on battery capacity and load. Advances in battery technology are gradually improving their capabilities. The optimal use of electric trucks right now is limited to urban deliveries with smaller loads and shorter distances.

ICE Trucks can travel significantly longer distances without refueling, often covering between 600 to 2,000 miles on a full tank, making them suitable for long-haul routes.

 Refueling and Charging Time

Electric Truck charging times range from a few hours to overnight, depending on the charging station’s power and the truck’s battery size. Fast chargers can reduce this time considerably but are not yet widespread.

Refueling an ICE truck takes only a few minutes, minimizing downtime during long trips.

Maintenance

Electric Trucks generally require less maintenance due to fewer moving parts. They don’t need oil changes, have fewer brake replacements due to regenerative braking, and experience less drivetrain wear.

ICE Trucks require regular maintenance, including oil changes and fuel filter replacements. The complexity of their engines also means more potential for mechanical issues.

Functional Differences

Performance and Efficiency

Electric Trucks offer instant torque for better acceleration and smoother operation. They are more energy-efficient, converting a higher percentage of energy from the battery to the wheels. In fact, electric vehicles operate at a whopping 87-91% energy efficiency.

While ICE trucks may not provide the same instant torque, they deliver consistent power over long distances. However, they are much less efficient, since they lose about 80% of their energy as heat.

Payload Capacity

The weight of electric truck batteries currently significantly reduces payload capacity. However,  there are advancements in battery technology almost daily and they are rapidly allowing for hauling of more and more cargo.

ICE Trucks generally offer higher payload capacities as they do not need to accommodate heavy batteries. They’ve existed for a hundred years and they’ve been optimized for freight shipping.

Emissions

Electric Trucks produce zero tailpipe emissions, making them environmentally friendly, especially in urban areas with strict emissions regulations. Their environmental impact is mostly caused by tires and the energy source providing the electricity for their batteries. 

ICE Trucks emit greenhouse gases and pollutants, which contribute to air pollution and raise environmental concerns. Diesel semis alone produce 18% of all US vehicle emissions. 

Aesthetic Differences

Design and Layout

Electric Trucks’ design can be more flexible without the need for a large engine compartment, allowing for innovative and potentially more aerodynamic shapes. Their batteries are positioned at the bottom of the vehicles, so they are also safer and less likely to tip.

ICE Trucks’ design is constrained by the need to house a large engine and associated components, resulting in a more traditional appearance.

Noise Pollution

Electric Trucks operate much more quietly than ICE trucks, beneficial in urban settings and residential areas where noise pollution is a concern.

ICE Trucks are noisier due to engine combustion and mechanical operations, which makes them an overall higher noise polluter.

Impact on Freight Shipping

Cost Implications

Electric Trucks have higher upfront costs but lower operating costs over time due to reduced fuel expenses and maintenance requirements. Federal and state incentives, such as those from the Inflation Reduction Act and Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, help offset initial costs.

ICE Trucks have lower initial costs but incur higher fuel and maintenance costs over their lifetime.

Environmental Impact

The use of electric trucks significantly reduces the carbon footprint of freight operations, aligning with global sustainability goals and regulatory requirements.

Continued reliance on ICE trucks contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation, facing stricter future regulations.

Infrastructure and Adoption

Electric Truck adoption depends heavily on the availability of charging infrastructure. As this infrastructure expands, electric trucks will become more viable for various freight routes.

ICE Trucks benefit from a well-established refueling infrastructure, ensuring consistent and reliable operation across long distances.

Conclusion

Businesses (both carriers and shippers) need to weigh the pros and cons of electric and ICE trucks. This includes operational and functional differences that impact freight shipping. Electric trucks offer significant environmental benefits and lower long-term costs but, for now, face limitations in range and charging infrastructure.

ICE trucks provide extensive range and established support but contribute to higher emissions and long-term costs. As technology advances and infrastructure improves, electric trucks are poised to play a more prominent role in the future of freight shipping, driving the industry toward a more sustainable path.

Follow the link to learn more about how Freightera can help with your road shipping. Alternatively, the easiest way to see how we can help you is to get instant freight quotes for free. We work with 100s of carriers, and many of them are SmartWay certified. It’s very common for certified carriers not just to be fuel-efficient, but also lower cost leaders.

If you happen to have any questions, feel free to reach out via Online Chat, at [email protected] or call us at 800-886-4870*1.

Happy Shipping! 🙂