The Introduction of Tesla SEMI back in 2017 has kicked off a rapid increase like an avalanche of electric cars developed by other manufacturers. These workhorses of the future possess massive battery packs can recharge at astonishing grades and while having similar hauling capabilities are much more agile on the roads than their diesel counterparts and competitors. Today we jot down a list of top 5 electric trucks which can be our future cargo transportation. Let’s dive into their details, release dates and technical specs and estimated prices.
EINRIDE's T/POD
When it comes to development of E-Trucks Nordic companies seems to take the lead, already practically testing and implementing their products. One of such firms is the EINRIDE that in May 2019 tested their self-driving T-POD on Swedish public roads. The truck is rated for a max weight of 26 tons, can fit 15 euro pallets and has no cab for the driver. It can be driven by a fully autonomous intelligent operating system that utilizes a host of cameras, lighters and radars. However, the system also allows a human operator to take charge remotely. The T-POD is powered by 280 kilowatt hour battery that should have enough juice for 200 kilometers of driving range.
TESLA Semi
Tesla always offer a rather interesting electric truck concepts but let’s be honest the Tesla Semi is still the most promising and closes to mass production model. Revealed back in 2017 it has been spotted multiple times on the highways going through testing recently, supposedly without a pilot. The semi is a class 8 cargo truck that on paper easily out performs any diesel being powered by four independent electric motors. The fully loaded 36 tons vehicle gets to 100 KPH in just 20 seconds; moreover it can travel at the max speed of 100 kilometers per hour. The announced price go up according to the range, base model comes with 482 kilimeters of range cost $150,000 while 800 kilometers of range to Cost $180,000. This truck is guaranteed by the manufacturer not to break down within 1 million Miles and it will be 20% cheaper to operate than any other diesel truck in the world.
FREIGHTLINER E-CASCADIA
Developed under Daimler’s Freightliner sub brand, this electric semi-truck is based on the platform of the company’s popular class 8 model the Cascadia. Just as its diesel cousin the E-Cascadia is a heavy duty truck for local and regional cargo transportation and distribution. It has the peak power of 730 horsepower and the battery capacity of 550 kilowatt hour. The model can travel up to 400 kilometers on a single charge and supports fast charging that replenishes 80% of the battery capacity in 90 minutes allowing it to go another 320 kilometers and also permits a gross combined weight rating of 36 tons. The vehicle is currently undergoing performance and convenience testing and Daimler Trucks has already announced plans to convert its Portland plants for production of electric trucks The E-Cascadia is expected to launch sometime in 2021.
NIKOLA One
Let’s call this truck the original electric semi since it was presented to the world prior to Tesla’s model and the likes. Unlike it competitors its power source is a 250 kilowatt hour battery recharged by hydrogen fuel cell PPU. The start-up is convinced that during long hauling it is only possible if the range anxiety is out of the question and with Nikola’s 1200 kilometers on a tank and 15 minutes refuel time we are definitely there. The might electric powertrain has 6X2 or 6X4 drive system which produces 1000 horsepower and 2000 ibf.ft of torque to achieve around 27 tons towing capacity. Further advancements include the fully digital dashboard, spacious cabin and panoramic unobstructed view. The initial production target for the semi will be scheduled in 2021.
Volvo Vera
With all the factors indicate that in the future both local and long distance transportation volumes will be navigable going up to meet the rising demand. Volvo trucks are determined to bring the world one of the first fully autonomous truck called Vera. This Volvo will probably cover local deliveries only and industrial hauling over short distances. The technical characteristics are still known but are expected to match those of the currently operational Volvo FL electric which is optional 100 to 300 kilowatt per hour battery and up to 300 kilometers of range.
How fast do you think electric cars and vehicles will replace diesel models in the industry of long hauling transportation? Our guess is that the ever heavier Tax penalties for high emission vehicles, this change will be rather fast. What about your thoughts/ share them in the comments section below.