Victoria has become the first state or territory in Australia to permanently remove a major obstacle for heavy-duty electric trucks operating on local roads.
Victoria will allow heavy-duty electric trucks to operate with a 7.5-tonne weight limit on the steer axle. The old weight limit was 6.5 tonnes.
The previous restrictions on steer axle weight had been stopping the growth of the electric trucking industry in Victoria. Heavy electric trucks require a 7.5-tonne weight limit to operate properly. This is due to the battery’s design and positioning.
This permission applies to specific roads identified on a Low/Zero Emission Heavy Vehicle (LZEHV) access map.
Although this is a positive development for Victoria, there is still a need for permanent removal of these barriers throughout the country. South Australia and New South Wales have introduced higher axle weight limits on a trial basis.
Volvo Australia is the sole manufacturer currently offering a complete range of electric heavy vehicles. The company has taken the lead in advocating for weight concessions for zero-emissions heavy vehicles.
Martin Merrick, President and CEO of Volvo Group Australia, commended the Victorian government for its regulatory change in an interview with The Driven.
Electric trucks are a critical component of reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the transport sector. A Dutch study found that a third of Europe’s trucks will need to be electric by 2030 if the continent is to achieve its Paris Climate Agreement commitments.
Moreover, electric truck technology has advanced to the point where mass adoption is now viable.
Tesla’s new electric Semi truck has a demonstrated efficiency of 1.7 kWh per mile (1.1 kWh per kilometre). This allows US truck drivers to save up to 23% on fuel costs compared to diesel trucks.
Additionally, in September, Volvo released a new line of electric trucks that can operate 24 hours a day.
Image Source: Electric Cars Report, https://shorturl.at/bEV19
