Many critics over the past few years have stated a recurring critique of the Tesla semi, arguing that the weight of the vehicles’ batteries made them ineffective against diesel and hydrogen competitors. However, an electric vehicle (EV) expert recently debunked this idea.
Senior Adviser for Electric Mobility at Eindhoven University of Technology, Auke Hoekstra, noted in a recent article in Bulk Distributor’s Magazine, that the “battery weight” argument often levied against Tesla’s semis was based on outdated ideas of EV batteries, as reported by Teslarati. Additionally, Hoekstra argued that semi-trucks would not be the last vehicles to go all-electric.
Look at that: I'm featured in the new issue of 'Bulk Distributor' with my vision for heavy electric trucks. pic.twitter.com/7LUWG2jMwL
— AukeHoekstra (@AukeHoekstra) November 4, 2020
In the piece, Hoekstra wrote, “Electric trucks will become the logical choice for many bulk transporters.” Citing the continued improvements of the truck batteries’ weights, he continued, “I expect that with five years, that weight will be down to 3.5 tons. And it doesn’t stop there.”
Other advantages of the semi EV Hoekstra included were cost savings on a fleet level compared to gas or diesel trucks, low maintenance requirements, and in today’s landscape compared to a decade ago, the sheer length of time batteries last compared to engines.
While conventional gas brands grip onto their products for dear life, EV companies like Tesla are pushing the world forward towards a more sustainable future – and with good reason.
