Electric trucks are coming on the market in 2021, and with the new push for electric vehicles, there are some pros and cons to consider. Are electric trucks better than gas and diesel trucks? We discuss what you need to know before you buy an electric truck.

The Pros -

Reduced Emissions

Clean air and global warming has become a sizzling political issue.

Electric cars have 40% lesser emissions that their traditionally powered counterparts. If electric trucks can match this emission levels, the toxic gases in the atmosphere are greatly minimized.

Lower Cost per Mile

Electricity currently costs less than gasoline, this may change. The cost of operating an electric truck per mile is estimated at $1.26 while the cost of owning a diesel heavy goods vehicle stands at $1.51 per mile. Similarly, the cost of maintaining an electric truck is also lower than a diesel engine-driven truck.

They Are Quiet

Electric trucks and cars run without the noise of engines.

Maintenance Is Less frequent, Less Expensive.

Since electric cars don’t run on oil and but they do require other maintenance as there are moving parts and rubber components.

Tax Credits-

If you’re the original owner of an electric vehicle, you’ll likely receive a tax credit just for helping to lessen your impact on the environment by driving a zero-emissions car. That tax credit can be as high as $7,500, depending on the make and model. There is, predictably, fine print when it comes to EV tax credits, Tesla and GM don’t offer a credit, but your state or company may offer one.

HOV lanes -

Some states are offering usage of the HOV lane or “carpool” lane, any time of day — even if you’re riding solo. This is helpful If you live in a high-traffic area.

The Cons -

Of course, nothing is perfect, and electric cars are no exception.

Range Anxiety

Electric vehicles including trucks and vans have this common problem: range limitation which is a cause for concern and anxiety among electric vehicle owners. Haulers are designed to crisscross states. Cargo distribution service providers need vehicles that provide good range including the ability to refuel/recharge anywhere at the shortest possible time. This is still an issue of concern for potential electric truck owners.

Choice of Truck

At this point, truck operators won’t have much choice should they plan to buy an electric delivery vehicle. There are only a few EV manufacturers that venture into the production of electric trucks and vans.

Insurance Costs

This is currently a tricky issue because there are only a few vehicle insurance companies willing to insure electric trucks. The cost for insuring electric vehicles is also higher than the cost levied on traditional vehicles.

Availability of Charging Points

There is currently a limited number and EV charging points across the United States. More are popping up but the concerns for truck operators and those who rely in their truck, may not be able to find a charging station near their work site.

Time to Charge 

Additionally, it would take hours to recharge trucks with standard charging units, but it only takes minutes to fill diesel or gas into a standard vehicle of the same size.

Increased Cost of Vehicle 

If you’ve never shopped for an EV before, you might experience a bit of sticker shock upon beginning your research. Even the more affordable electric car models start in the $30,000 to $40,000 range, while luxury models can be $80,000s and upward. Until technology advances and becomes less expensive to produce, consumers can expect to pay between $10,000 and $50,000 more for an EV.

The Bottom Line

The current administration wants more EVs and will offer incentives. In other countries, the incentive helps but doesn’t cause consumers to sell their vehicles and have only one EV in their households. It helps but will not replace all gas and diesel-powered vehicles.

Manufacturers will be producing electric vehicles in order to meet the corporate average fuel economy (CAFE), as federal fines could be excessive over time. Manufacturers are not making profit from these vehicles and they’re in business to make money. If they’re not making money and are forced to produce cars that don’t produce a profit, it will only hurt their bottom line which will reduce their advancement in technology and employment.

List of 2021 Electric Trucks available:

Rivian R1T - Prices start at $67,500 - 250 mile range - deliveries start in June

Tesla Cyber Truck - prices expected $39,500 - very late 2021 or 2022

Bollinger B2 - prices start at $125,000 - no set time in 2021

Lordstown Endurance pickup - $52,500 - September 2021

Atlis XT - $45,000 - available 2022

Hummer EV - $80,000 - late 2021

F-150 EV - $90,000 - mid 2022

Nikola Badger - no price yet - avail 2022

Fisker Alaska -

Nissan Titan Electric -

More Car Smarts tips and ways to save money are in my book, Lauren Fix’s Guide to loving your car

Lauren Fix, The Car Coach® is a nationally recognized automotive expert, media guest, journalist, author, keynote speaker and television host. Post your comments on Twitter: @LaurenFix or on her Facebook Page.