24 stories tagged commercial-vehicles on EV Digest.
A U.S. startup is bringing an innovative electrification solution for heavy-duty trucking to market, offering a detachable battery and electric drive axle system that transforms conventional diesel semi-trucks into hybrid EVs. This modular 'dolly' unit connects between the tractor and trailer, providing electric power for hundreds of miles and aiming to reduce fuel consumption and emissions for existing fleets.
Battery giant CATL has announced a groundbreaking new battery system designed to directly challenge the range and durability of diesel-powered heavy-duty trucks. This innovative technology promises an impressive 620 miles (1,000 km) of range on a single charge, coupled with an ultra-long lifespan exceeding 900,000 miles (1.5 million km) of use. Targeting the demanding commercial vehicle sector, this development could accelerate the transition to electric powertrains for freight and logistics.
The much-anticipated Tesla Semi electric truck is preparing to enter the European market, potentially reshaping heavy-duty transport across the continent. While its high-torque electric powertrain promises significant operational benefits, European operators will need to weigh its reported range capabilities against potential payload reductions.
A monumental initiative is in motion to establish a dedicated zero-emission heavy-duty vehicle (ZE-HDV) corridor spanning the entire West Coast of North America, from British Columbia to Baja California. This ambitious project aims to support hydrogen fuel-cell electric trucks and battery-electric trucks by deploying a network of megawatt charging stations and hydrogen fueling infrastructure across three countries.
The long-anticipated Tesla Semi electric truck is making significant inroads into Europe, highlighted by a substantial new order. This development marks a key step in Tesla's strategy to expand the Semi's presence beyond North America, following years of pilot programs and production ramp-up challenges.
Mahle, an automotive supplier, has introduced an innovative range-extended electric vehicle (EREV) system designed to overcome the payload and range limitations of battery-electric heavy trucks. This new solution integrates a compact electric motor with a small internal combustion engine, allowing it to generate electricity for longer journeys without compromising cargo capacity.
Kia's first electric commercial vehicle, the PV5 van, has quickly established a strong foothold in the European market. Despite its recent introduction, the PV5 now commands a significant 37% share of all small electric light commercial vehicle (e-LCV) sales across Europe and the UK, signaling strong demand for Kia's purpose-built EV offerings.
Tesla's Class 8 electric truck, the Semi, is officially expanding its commercial operations into Europe. Following initial listings in Germany, the vehicle will now be deployed in France, marking a significant step for the Semi's international rollout beyond North America.
Driventic has introduced its VEDS 2.2 electric drive system, designed for a range of commercial vehicles from medium-duty trucks to heavy-duty buses. This advanced system offers a more compact and lightweight solution compared to its predecessor, suitable for both new vehicle manufacturing and retrofit applications.
Tesla has announced plans to integrate its Full Self-Driving (FSD) beta software into its Class 8 electric Semi trucks. This expansion marks a significant step for Tesla's autonomous technology beyond passenger vehicles, aiming to bring advanced driver-assistance features to the commercial freight sector.
China is rapidly electrifying its truck fleets, particularly in urban delivery and short-haul logistics, moving away from diesel at a pace and scale often underestimated by Western commentators. This shift, driven by robust domestic policies and manufacturing, offers a glimpse into the future of commercial transport. The authors argue that Western planners need to recognize and adapt to this accelerating trend.
Chinese manufacturer LiuGong is introducing its battery-electric construction and material handling equipment to the United States and Canada. This move offers North American industries like construction and forestry new options for electrifying their fleets and reducing emissions on job sites.
Driventic has started manufacturing their latest VEDS 1.5 electric drive system, designed for integration into commercial buses and trucks. This updated system features a new integrated drive inverter that boasts a lighter weight and streamlined connector system, aiming to enhance efficiency and ease of installation for vehicle manufacturers. The VEDS 1.5 continues Driventic's focus on providing core electric propulsion technology to the commercial EV sector.
Horse Powertrain, a subsidiary of the Renault Group, has introduced a new D20 range extender designed for commercial electric vehicles. This innovative system utilizes a methanol-fueled generator to produce electricity on demand, significantly extending the operational range of BEVs without relying on traditional gasoline.
Medium-duty electric trucks (Classes 4-6) are rapidly gaining traction in the U.S. commercial sector, driven by advancements in battery technology and a growing charging ecosystem. Fleets are increasingly adopting these vehicles for urban and regional deliveries, realizing significant operational savings and environmental benefits. However, widespread adoption still hinges on expanding public charging infrastructure and addressing range anxiety concerns for longer routes.
A new report highlights the potential for shared charging infrastructure to accelerate the transition to electric trucks. By leveraging underutilized depots and enabling collaboration between fleets, this model can reduce the significant upfront costs associated with dedicated charging setups. This approach makes fleet electrification more accessible and economically viable for a wider range of trucking operations.
The promising Slate electric pickup, targeting an affordable price point for fleet operators, has confirmed it currently has no plans to expand its sales into Canada. While the company aims for a general market release in the US by early 2026, Canadian buyers will have to wait for now. The startup is currently prioritizing its initial US rollout and scalability.
A new report from CALSTART reveals significant growth in zero-emission truck adoption across the United States last year. After a slower start, deployments accelerated in the latter half of 2025, with zero-emission models making up more than 4% of all new truck deployments.
Amidst persistent skepticism regarding electric heavy-duty vehicles, Mercedes-Benz is publishing real-world performance data from 80 of its eActros electric semi-trucks operating in Germany. The data demonstrates remarkable efficiency, even when transporting 36 tons through challenging winter conditions, rivaling the efficiency often seen in passenger EVs from brands like Tesla.
Zero-emission trucks (ZETs), encompassing battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell models, accounted for over 4% of total truck deployments in the United States during the second half of 2025. This significant increase marks a substantial jump from the 1.32% market share observed in the first half of the year, signaling accelerating adoption of electrified commercial vehicles.
Orange EV, a leading manufacturer of electric terminal trucks, announced significant milestones this month, with over 2,000 of its zero-emission yard hostlers now deployed to customers. This achievement coincides with their trucks collectively logging more than 33 million electric miles, demonstrating growing adoption in logistics and distribution. The company also highlighted a key delivery to Coca-Cola Canada Bottling, expanding its footprint in North America.
Chinese manufacturer FAW Jiefang is actively testing sodium-ion batteries in its heavy-duty trucks, marking a significant step from lab development to real-world application. This initiative aims to assess the practicality and performance of these more affordable and abundant battery alternatives for commercial vehicle use, potentially reducing reliance on lithium-ion technology.
While electric passenger vehicles are rapidly gaining traction, the adoption of electric heavy-goods vehicles (eHGVs) significantly lags behind, particularly in Europe. New software solutions are emerging to tackle the unique challenges of long-haul electric trucking, aiming to reduce range anxiety and operational costs.
California trucking companies are increasingly looking to the Tesla Semi as a viable option for fleet electrification. Its competitive pricing and impressive range are proving attractive compared to other electric trucks currently on the market, potentially accelerating EV adoption in the heavy-duty sector.
