Heavy Duty Electric Trucks
Heavy Duty Electric Trucks are designed for long-haul transportation and are equipped with large-capacity batteries to support extended ranges. These trucks are gaining traction as they meet the demand for zero-emission solutions in freight and logistics sectors.

The Heart of the Machine: The Battery

The defining component of a heavy-duty electric truck is its colossal battery pack.

• Massive Capacity: To provide a viable operating range while hauling immense weight, these trucks are equipped with battery packs that are ten times the size of those in a typical electric car. Capacities of 500 kWh to over 600 kWh are now the standard for new long-haul models. For example, the Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 uses a battery pack with over 600 kWh of capacity.

• The Weight vs. Payload Trade-off: This massive battery is also the truck's biggest challenge. It can weigh several tonnes, which directly subtracts from the maximum weight of the cargo (the payload) the truck can legally carry. The industry's primary goal is to increase the battery's energy density to reduce this weight.

Powertrain: E-Axles and Multiple Motors

The power to move 40 tonnes comes from a new generation of powerful and efficient electric drivetrains.

• The E-Axle: The dominant design is the "e-axle," which integrates the electric motors, power electronics, and a multi-speed gearbox directly onto the drive axle. This creates a compact and efficient unit.

• Multiple Motors: Many heavy-duty trucks now use two or even three electric motors working in concert. This allows for very high power output (often over 600 continuous horsepower) and provides benefits in terms of efficiency and redundancy.

Real-World Range and Charging

The question on every logistics operator's mind is range. The current generation of heavy-duty electric trucks, like the Volvo FH Electric and the Scania 45 R/S, can reliably achieve a real-world range of up to 500 km on a single charge, depending on the load, terrain, and weather.

While this is not enough for a non-stop cross-continent journey, it is more than sufficient for a huge portion of the European freight market, which consists of regional distribution and fixed inter-city routes. The key to unlocking longer journeys is the new Megawatt Charging System (MCS), which is designed to replenish the majority of this range during a driver's mandatory 45-minute rest break.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a heavy-duty electric truck? A1: It refers to a large, battery-powered commercial truck, typically with a gross vehicle weight of 16 tonnes or more, including the 40-tonne tractor-trailer units used for regional and long-haul freight.

Q2: How far can a heavy-duty electric truck go on one charge? A2: As of 2025, the latest generation of heavy-duty electric trucks from manufacturers like Volvo, Mercedes-Benz, and Scania can achieve a range of up to 500 kilometers on a full charge.

Q3: How long does it take to charge a heavy-duty electric truck? A3: Using the new Megawatt Charging System (MCS), it will be possible to charge the battery from 20% to 80% in about 30-45 minutes. This aligns perfectly with the mandatory rest periods for truck drivers in Europe, making long-haul electric trucking viable.

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