The Ultimate EV Charging Guide for Electric Trucks

The shift towards electric vehicles is rapidly picking up pace, and with that comes the need for reliable charging solutions, particularly for electric trucks. This guide provides you with an overview of electric truck charging, including the different charging types, equipment required, and essential factors to consider. Whether you are a fleet owner, operator, or just interested in electric trucks, this guide will help you stay ahead of the game and make informed decisions about your charging needs.

Understanding Electric Charging Options

Charging an electric vehicle is a crucial aspect of owning and operating one, and with the increasing popularity of electric vehicles, understanding the different charging options is more important than ever. 

For those on the go, numerous public charging networks are available, including street parking, shopping centres, and working charging points.

It is essential to consider your electric vehicle’s charge rate and charging speeds when choosing a charging option, as well as the charging cables required. With the right charging equipment, you can add miles of range to your electric vehicle in a matter of hours. A typical electric vehicle can add around 50-60 miles of range on a single charge, but this varies depending on the make and model.

For EV drivers, it’s important to be aware of the different charging options available and how they can impact the miles of range you can add to your vehicle in each amount of time. Whether you choose to charge at home, at work, or on the go, make sure to research the best options for you and your electric vehicle. With the right information and charging setup, you can have peace of mind and enjoy the many benefits of electric vehicles.

At Vital EV we have a team of EV specialists who will be happy to speak to you about all your EV charging options and help you put a future-proof solution in place for your business.

How does an Electric Truck work?

Electric trucks are powered by an electric motor that consumes electrical energy stored in batteries. The driving range of an electric truck is determined by the capacity of its batteries.

The batteries of an electric truck are made up of multiple cells connected in modules and are monitored by a battery management system (BMS). The BMS protects the truck and batteries from damage and fire by ensuring proper use and safeguarding against premature ageing.

To increase the energy density of electric truck batteries, Lithium-ion NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) cells are utilised. These cells offer an excellent power to weight ratio, providing the best balance between the driving range and payload capacity.

Electric Truck Charging

The driving range of an electric truck is influenced by several key factors, including the purpose of the truck, the load it is carrying, the driving style, and even external conditions. These factors can have a significant impact on the distance an electric truck can travel on a single charge. Because of all the different factors that can affect a Ev truck’s mile range, it is important to get the charging points right to ensure the mile range does not affect your day to day operations. At Vital EV we can discuss all your options with you to come up with a foolhardy solution for your needs.

Types of Charge Points

The type of charging point you use will have an impact on how long it takes the electric truck to charge. If you are looking to move to a fleet of electric vehicles, ensuring you have the right chargers is an important factor in your EV journey, especially with truck driving as time spent charging is time off the road.

Efficient and Budget-Friendly Charging With Slow Charge Points

Slow charge points are a great option for those looking to charge their electric truck while parked for extended periods of time, such as during work hours or overnight. These charge points are often the most economical to use, making them a cost-effective solution for those looking to keep their charging expenses low.

Convenient and Time-Saving Charging With Fast Charge Points

Fast charge points are designed for electric truck owners who are looking for a convenient and time-saving charging solution. With fast charge points, you can add a significant amount of range to your vehicle in just a few hours, making them an ideal option for mid-duration parking.

Power Up Quickly with Rapid Charge Points

For those in need of a quick recharge, rapid charge points are the fastest way to get your electric truck back on the road. These charge points can typically recharge your vehicle to 80% in just 30 minutes, but they come at a higher cost and cannot be installed at home. Rapid charge points are perfect for those who need to get back on the road quickly and don’t mind paying a premium for the convenience.

Cost and Environment Benefits

The upfront cost of purchasing an electric truck may be higher than a traditional diesel truck, but the overall cost of ownership becomes more comparable over time, due to lower maintenance costs and less expensive energy.

Adopting electric trucks offers environmental benefits as it reduces carbon emissions and air pollution compared to traditional diesel trucks. The electric drivetrain results in zero tailpipe emissions and the use of renewable energy sources for charging further reduces the carbon footprint. Making the switch to electric trucks can also contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment for local communities, especially in urban areas where air pollution is a significant problem. The transition to electric trucks also supports the shift towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly transportation system.

Frequently asked questions