The Gist
Electric trucking is on the rise, but to truly succeed, fleets need to embrace both depot and public charging options. By leveraging shared charging infrastructure, companies can maximize their operational range and revenue potential.
How It Worked
Rather than limiting electrification to depot-only charging, where trucks can only operate within a certain range, the integration of public charging networks allows for greater flexibility. Shared charging enables fleets to access charging stations beyond their depots, similar to how less-than-truckload shipping shares trailer capacity. This approach not only reduces costs but also improves the utilization of electric trucks. Furthermore, the strategy encourages companies to design charging infrastructure that aligns with freight movement, incorporating features like pull-through access and software integration.
Results
By adopting a corridor charging model, an electric truck can increase its mileage from 45,000 to 75,000 miles annually. This translates to an increase in gross revenue from $112,500 to $187,500. For a fleet of 50 trucks, this could mean an additional $2.5 million in revenue. The flexibility offered by public charging also provides backup options during equipment downtime or utility constraints, allowing fleets to deploy vehicles sooner.
Why It Matters for You
For businesses in logistics, considering a shared charging strategy could be transformative. By expanding your charging infrastructure options, you can enhance your fleet's operational efficiency, increase potential earnings, and respond more dynamically to changing demands. Embracing a multi-faceted approach to electric truck charging may be the key to staying competitive in an evolving market.
