Electric trucks become cheaper to operate than diesel in key EU markets

A report by the Brussels-based advocacy group Transport & Environment (T&E) indicates that electric trucks have become more cost-effective to own and operate than diesel models in six major European Union markets. These markets—the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, France, and Belgium—account for approximately 46% of new heavy-truck registrations in the EU.

Driven by rising diesel prices, the analysis shows that operators can recoup the initial price premium of electric vehicles in about two years. For instance, five-year savings are estimated at up to €100,000 in the Netherlands and €85,000 in Germany. The report notes that while the transition has been slowed by high purchase costs and insufficient charging infrastructure, the business case for electrification is strengthening.

European manufacturers, including Daimler Truck, Volvo Group, and Scania, face increasing competition from lower-cost Chinese and American electric truck models. Some Chinese-built electric trucks are expected to be priced roughly 30% lower than their European counterparts, potentially offering additional savings for operators in markets like Germany.