Strict environmental regulations and rapid technological progress are transforming the transport and logistics industry. Battery-electric trucks (BEVs) are at the forefront of this change, offering companies sustainable, cost-efficient, and future-proof solutions.

The market momentum is clear: In the first half of 2024, battery-electric truck registrations in the EU increased by 51.6% compared to the previous year — and by an impressive 113.9% in Germany alone. These numbers reflect growing confidence in electric mobility across the logistics sector.

Types of battery-electric trucks (according to EU classification)

Light Electric Trucks (Class N1): These vehicles, with a gross vehicle weight of up to 3.5 tons are ideal for urban delivery and regional distribution. With a range of up to 200 km and the ability to charge using existing infrastructure, they offer a cost-effective solution for short distances.

Medium Electric Trucks (Class N2): With a gross vehicle weight of up to 12 tons, such as the Scania 45 R, these trucks are often used in regional distribution. They offer a greater range of up to 300 km and are ideal for daily operations over medium distances, supported by adaptable charging infrastructure.

Heavy Electric Trucks (Class N3): With a gross vehicle weight of up to 40 tons, such as the Volvo FH Aero Electric, these trucks face greater challenges in heavy-duty and long-haul transport. They require larger battery capacities, which can extend their range to up to 500 km. However, technological advancements and the development of more powerful fast-charging stations make these trucks a promising option for long-haul transport.

Electric Trucks 2025: Updated Comparison of Leading Models

Mercedes-Benz eActros

Models: The Mercedes-Benz eActros is available in several variants tailored to different applications and requirements. The main models include the eActros 300, eActros 400 and the newer eActros 600, which is specially designed for long-distance transportation.

Range: 

• eActros 300: up to 300 km
• eActros 400: up to 400 km 
• eActros 600: up to 500 km

Battery Capacity: 

• eActros 300: 336 kWh (with 3 packs)
• eActros 400: 448 kWh (with 4 packs)
• eActros 600: 621 kWh (3 packs)

Charging Times:

• eActros 300: approx. 1h 15 min (20% to 80%), max. charging power: 160 kW
• eActros 600: approx. 60 minutes (20% to 80% - Combined Charging System), approx. 30 minutes (20% to 80% - Megawatt Charging System)
• eActros 400: approx. 1h 40 min (20% to 80%), max. charging power: 160 kW

Use Cases:

• eActros 300: suitable for urban and regional distribution
• eActros 400: suitable for medium distances
• eActros 600: specifically designed for long-haul transport and suitable for long distances and demanding transport tasks

Volvo Electric Trucks

Models: Volvo offers a wide range of electric trucks, many of which are well-suited for transport logistics.

Range:

• Volvo FL Electric: up to 450 km
• Volvo FE Electric: up to 275 km
• Volvo FH Aero Electric: up to 600 km
• Volvo FH Electric: up to 300 km
• Volvo recently announced that a new long-range version of the FH Electric, capable of driving up to 600 km on a single charge, will be launched next year (Source: Volvo Trucks)
  
• Volvo FM Electric: up to 300 km

Battery Capacity:

• Volvo FL Electric: 280 kWh to 565 kWh (3-6 battery packs)
• Volvo FE Electric: 280 kWh to 375 kWh (3-4 battery packs)
• Volvo FH Aero Electric: 360 kWh to 540 kWh (4-6 battery packs)
• Volvo FH Electric: 360 kWh to 780 kWh (4-6 battery packs)
• Volvo FM Electric: 180 kWh to 540 kWh (2-6 battery packs)

Charging Times:

• Volvo FL Electric: up to 2.3 hours (depending on the number of battery packs)
• Volvo FE Electric: up to 2.3 hours (depending on the number of battery packs)
• Volvo FH Aero Electric: 9.5 hours charging time (43 kW), 2.5 hours charging time (250 kW)
• Volvo FH Electric: 40 minutes (DC charging)
• Volvo FM Electric: 9.5 hours charging time (43 kW), 2.5 hours charging time (250 kW)

Use Cases:

• Volvo FL Electric: Ideal for urban deliveries and regional distribution, especially in areas with strict environmental regulations.
• Volvo FE Electric: Suitable for more demanding tasks such as transporting heavy loads in urban and regional environments.
• Volvo FH Aero Electric: Suitable for long-distance transport.
• Volvo FH Electric: For transporting large volumes of goods or construction site work.
• Volvo FM Electric: Ideal for high-volume food deliveries, container transport, and urban deliveries.

Scania Electric Trucks

Models: Scania offers several battery-electric truck models, including the Scania 25 P BEV, Scania 25 L BEV, and Scania 45 R BEV, each designed for different use cases.

Range:

• Scania 25 P and Scania 25 L: up to 250 km
• Scania 45 R: up to 600 km

Battery Capacity:

• Scania 25 P and Scania 25 L: up to 300 kWh
• Scania 45 R: up to 624 kWh

Charging Times:

• Scania 25 P and Scania 25 L: Fast charging options with shorter charging times, ideal for urban use.
• Scania 45 R: 110 minutes (375 kW DC charging)

Use Cases:

• Scania 25 P and Scania 25 L: Optimal for urban transport.
• Scania 45 R: Optimal for regional transport.

Renault Electric Trucks

Models: Renault Trucks offers a broad range of battery-powered trucks. While the Renault E-Tech C is designed for urban construction transport, the E-Tech T, E-Tech D, and E-Tech D WIDE are ideal for various transport activities.

Range:

• E-Tech T: up to 600 km
• E-Tech D: up to 560 km (with 6 battery packs)
• E-Tech D WIDE: up to 315 km

Battery Capacity:

• E-Tech T and E-Tech D: 200 kWh to 300 kWh, customizable to specific needs.
• E-Tech D: 200 kWh to 575 kWh.
• E-Tech D WIDE: 280 kWh to 275 kWh.

Charging Times:

• E-Tech T: 2.5 hours (at 250 kW)
• E-Tech D: 1 hour and 50 minutes (at 150 kW)
• E-Tech D WIDE: 1 hour and 35 minutes (at 150 kW)

Use Cases:

• E-Tech T: For regional distribution.
• E-Tech D: For urban and suburban transport.
• E-Tech D WIDE: For local transport.

MAN Electric Trucks

Models: The MAN eTGX and MAN eTGS are the battery-electric truck models in MAN's product lineup.

Range:

• MAN eTGX: up to 600 km
• MAN eTGS: up to 300 km

Battery Capacity:

• MAN eTGX: 480 kWh to 240 kWh (with 6-3 battery packs)
• MAN eTGS: 480 kWh to 240 kWh (with 6-3 battery packs)

Charging Times:

• MAN eTGX: 31 minutes (375 kW DC charging).
• MAN eTGS: Shorter charging times, ideal for urban use.

Use Cases:

• MAN eTGX: Ideal for long-haul transport.
• MAN eTGS: Ideal for heavy-duty distribution transport

Advantages of electric trucks in transport logistics

Despite the initial challenges of building charging infrastructure and higher upfront costs, electric trucks are proving to be economically advantageous in the long run. Projections by the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) indicate that battery electric trucks will be the most cost-effective option for decarbonization by 2030, further accelerating their adoption and acceptance.

Environmental benefits: Electric trucks make a significant contribution to reducing CO₂ emissions, helping companies meet their climate change targets. In addition, their quiet engines reduce noise pollution in urban areas, which is particularly beneficial for nighttime operations and inner-city deliveries. This not only improves the quality of life for city dwellers, but also reduces the environmental impact of urban areas.

Economic benefits: Although the initial purchase price of battery-powered trucks is currently higher than that of diesel models, this cost is quickly offset by lower operating costs and reduced maintenance requirements. In addition, companies can benefit from financial incentives such as toll exemptions and specific subsidy programs at the state level, such as the subsidy program in North Rhine-Westphalia, which specifically promotes the transition to electric trucks. In addition, the use of electric trucks enhances a company's image and provides a competitive advantage in a market increasingly focused on sustainability and green solutions.

Technological advantages: In urban applications, light and medium-duty battery electric trucks already have a comparable total cost of ownership (TCO) to their diesel counterparts, as lower operating costs offset the higher purchase price. For heavy-duty trucks in long-haul applications, TCO parity is expected to be reached between 2025 and 2026, as the batteries required for long-haul applications still have higher initial costs (source: ICCT). Ongoing advances in battery technology and charging processes are leading to longer ranges and shorter charging times, further improving the efficiency and flexibility of electric truck operations.

Advanced fleet management systems, such as those provided by IO-Dynamics, enable precise control and monitoring of electric truck fleets, maximizing energy efficiency and minimizing maintenance costs. These technological advances make the integration of electric trucks into transportation logistics even more attractive and economically viable.

Key considerations for choosing the right vehicle

Choosing the right vehicle is critical in transportation logistics, especially when transitioning to electric trucks. Several factors must be carefully considered to ensure that this step is both economically and sustainably successful in the long run:

• Maximum payload: The payload capacity of an electric truck is a key factor in determining the efficiency and capacity of your logistics processes. Make sure that the electric truck you choose can meet your payload requirements without compromising range or other performance parameters.

• Gross Vehicle Weight: The total weight of the vehicle is critical because it affects both operating costs and regulatory compliance. This includes tolls and road restrictions related to vehicle weight. When choosing an electric truck, make sure the gross vehicle weight, including battery and load, meets regulatory requirements while still meeting your operational needs.

• Range and charging capabilities: The range of an electric truck is often the deciding factor in vehicle selection. Make sure the range is sufficient to cover your typical routes without frequent charging stops. The availability and speed of charging infrastructure along your routes is also important. Make sure the truck is compatible with different charging systems to maximize operational flexibility.

• Available chassis space: Chassis space on an electric truck is critical for integrating additional equipment, such as specialized bodies or cargo restraints. Make sure there is enough space to accommodate all operational requirements without compromising vehicle performance. This allows the truck to be seamlessly adapted to your specific transport needs.

• Integration with existing logistics processes: A smooth transition to electric mobility requires the seamless integration of the electric truck into your existing logistics and fleet management processes. Consider how well the vehicle integrates with your IT systems and operations. This includes maintenance requirements, driver and technician training, and route planning adjustments. Thoughtful integration minimizes downtime and maximizes efficiency.

Considering these factors will ensure a sustainable and efficient investment.

Looking ahead: Electric trucks paving the way for a sustainable future in transport logistics

The growing acceptance and technological advancements of electric trucks signal a clear shift in transportation logistics. While diesel trucks still dominate today, the balance could shift in favor of electric trucks in the coming years, especially as charging infrastructure expands and costs drop. The significant 51.6 percent increase in new registrations in the EU in the first half of 2024 underscores the industry's growing commitment to sustainable transformation.

Companies deploying electric trucks now are positioning themselves as leaders in a changing industry, reaping not only environmental benefits but also long-term cost savings.

With our intelligent charging and energy management software, we can help you successfully navigate the transition to electric mobility! We can guide and support you on your journey to electric mobility, providing a management platform that enables you to meet current market demands while remaining competitive and environmentally friendly in the long term. Learn more about our intelligent charging solutions for transportation and logistics fleets.