EVs for work
Electric vans and trucks are a great way to lower your operating and maintenance costs while reducing your carbon footprint.
With more electric van and truck options coming on to the market and improved battery technology allowing for longer distance travel, switching to electric can make good business sense.
Why electric vans and trucks?
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Reduced fuel costs
Electricity is cheaper than diesel, meaning big cost savings over the life of an electric vehicle. Recent trials of e-trucks have shown 70-75% reduction in fuel costs.*
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Lower maintenance costs
Electric vans and trucks have fewer moving parts, so have lower maintenance needs. This means fewer repairs over their lifetime and less downtime needed for servicing.
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Zero emissions and high-energy efficiency
Electric vans and trucks have no tailpipe emissions. They also use energy more efficiently, meaning they can cover more distance using the same amount of energy.
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Improved battery range
Electric vans can travel 250km to 400km on a single charge. Small electric trucks can go 150km to 200km. Larger trucks can go up to 350km, with some options offering 500km.
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Better driving experience
With no engine noise and less vibration while moving, electric vans and trucks offer drivers a more comfortable driving environment with less noise and fatigue. They also have no gears, so offer immediate power, instant acceleration and more responsive handling.
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Good for business
Adopting electric vans or trucks signals to customers and competitors that you’re investing in more sustainable ways of operating.
Things to consider
What others are doing
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Leading the electric truck revolution
Battery electric medium-duty trucks have arrived in New Zealand. Reliance Transport was first to adopt them into its fleet. These trucks significantly reduced Reliance’s carbon footprint, offered substantial operational savings and positioned the company as a leader in electric trucking.
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New Zealand Post electric vans
As part of their commitment to reducing emissions, NZ Post trialled eight electric vans in their courier fleet during 2018 and 2019. The results proved electric vans to be economical and practical for their business.
Funding available for electric trucks
Grants from EECA’s Low Emissions Heavy Vehicle Fund (LEHVF) cover up to 25% of the purchase price of new zero and low-emissions heavy vehicles, or up to 25% of the cost to convert existing, recently registered diesel trucks.
Heavy freight sector decarbonisation pathway
If you are in the heavy freight business and looking to save money and emissions through energy efficiency, this is for you. These free tools and resources have been designed by industry experts for the heavy freight sector.