A year-long study by FPInnovations’ PIT Group has provided one of the most detailed real-world insights yet into the performance of Class 8 battery-electric trucks (BEVs) across Canadian roads. Collecting over 200,000 km of operational data from two fleets in the Montreal area, the trial tracked trucks operated by Martin Brower and Loblaw, revealing how BEVs perform across different seasons, routes, and depot charging setups.
Operational Insights: Aligning BEVs with Their Strengths
The study confirmed that simply swapping diesel trucks for electric units does not guarantee comparable performance. Fleets that adapted routes, schedules, and depot operations to the unique characteristics of BEVs achieved better energy efficiency and uptime. Centralized terminals, predictable return windows, and consistent routes were key factors in reducing operational risks, while concerns about charger availability often limited utilization more than battery range itself.
Energy and Emissions Gains
The trial highlighted the environmental advantages of Class 8 BEVs. Trucks consumed significantly less energy than diesel counterparts and produced roughly 80% fewer greenhouse gas emissions under Quebec’s relatively clean electrical grid. Seasonal effects were notable: winter cold increased energy use, while summer conditions delivered peak efficiency. Driver style, terrain, and temperature remained influential, demonstrating that operational management remains critical regardless of propulsion type.
Key Comparative Metrics
| Metric | BEV (Trial) | Diesel (Typical) |
|---|---|---|
| Energy consumption | Much lower | Higher |
| GHG emissions (Quebec grid) | ≈80% lower | Baseline |
| Average daily km | 150–200 km | ~300–400 km |
| Cost parity horizon (with incentives) | ~6 years at 74,000 km/yr | Standard lifecycle |
| Downtime severity | Longer when faults occur | Shorter repair turnaround |
The Myth of a Direct Diesel Swap
Maxime Tanguay-Laflèche, senior researcher on the project, emphasized that BEVs thrive when operations are optimized for their strengths rather than mimicking diesel schedules. Fleets that adjusted dispatching, route planning, and depot charging schedules unlocked the benefits, while strict diesel-for-electric swaps led to early limitations.
Charging Strategy as a Core Fleet Variable
The study underlined that charging infrastructure is now as critical as fuel planning and maintenance. Best practices include planning depot power and charger redundancy early, prioritizing reliable and fast charging for high-utilization shifts, and leveraging telematics to coordinate charging windows and prevent dispatch uncertainty.
Practical Recommendations for Fleets
- Map routes based on predictability and daily distance, not advertised BEV range.
- Model total cost of ownership (TCO) with and without purchase and infrastructure incentives.
- Invest in technician training and ensure OEM service access.
- Conduct staged pilots that adjust operations rather than enforce like-for-like replacements.
Cost and Utilization Considerations
Economic viability is closely tied to utilization. With government incentives, BEVs can approach cost parity with diesel over a six-year lifecycle at roughly 74,000 km per year. Without incentives, achieving cost efficiency requires higher utilization levels that many regional fleets may not sustain.
Reliability and Service Readiness
Electric trucks did not fail more frequently than diesel units, but repairs tended to take longer due to early-stage teething issues and the learning curve of the industry. A mature OEM service network and trained technicians are crucial to match diesel uptime.
Driver Experience
Operators favored BEVs for smoother acceleration, quieter cabins, and reduced fatigue, often receiving positive public attention at docks. Improved working conditions may accelerate adoption, particularly in urban and regional hauls.
Cautious Adoption and Future Outlook
Despite positive outcomes, fleets typically operated BEVs at roughly half their advertised range, reflecting a cautious approach to adoption. The study suggests utilization—and associated economics—will likely improve as fleets gain experience and confidence.
Conclusion
FPInnovations’ trial offers a practical playbook for fleet managers: optimize operations for BEV characteristics, treat charging as a core variable, and plan for technician readiness and infrastructure maturity. Platforms like GetTransport.com can help fleets test solutions, pilot routes, or manage shipments without major upfront investment, bridging the gap between trial experience and large-scale electrification.
