The evolution of the electric truck is already underway. Despite the fact that this type of vehicle has not been sold to the general public yet, it is expected that the landscape will change drastically in the next two years. Electric trucks are particularly suited for conversions in light trucks, as they have ladder frames with sufficient space to house a battery pack between rails. Because electric motors are smaller than internal combustion engines, they have lower maintenance costs and are more reliable. Also, removing the engine opens up additional storage space, known as the frunk.
Tesla unveiled its first electric semi-truck in November, demonstrating the rapid progress of technology in the trucking industry. The new model can be retrofitted into nearly any new truck manufacturer’s chassis, which makes it a perfect fit for the transition to electric trucks. The company is also working with existing truck manufacturers to develop these vehicles. TT Newsmakers is a free video-based conversation with industry leaders who provide insight into how electric trucks will change the future of the transportation industry.
The early years of electric trucks are filled with storied history. Electric vehicles were first marketed to women in the early 1900s. These vehicles were sold as cleaner, safer, easier-to-use, and more reliable than gas-powered vehicles. There are even rare early EVs that have extravagant Edwardian features like flower vases and clocks. Other features include velvet seating, mirrors, and makeup kits. But despite their early failures, EVs have seen a revival in recent years, and their popularity is still growing.
The decline of electric vehicles can be traced to better roads and the discovery of cheap Texas crude oil. By 1935, electric vehicles had almost vanished from the market. Further, the continued improvements in internal combustion engines and cheap gasoline helped to suppress the demand for alternative fuel vehicles. Electric trucks were almost forgotten about for half a century. However, the oil prices soared during the 1970s, and the Arab Oil Embargo brought gasoline shortages to a high point.
The development of electric vehicles began in 1896. Thomas Edison created two small-scale EVs in Hartford, Connecticut. Though he never intended for his cars to compete with gas and steam cars, the electric car was more reliable and quieter. Its range was only 30 miles, and it took several years for the first EVs to be used widely. Eventually, this vehicle was used in many areas, from cities to deliver goods.
In 2010, the EV industry was gaining momentum, and the first electric trucks started to hit the market. The first electric trucks started on the market as a low-cost alternative to gasoline-powered trucks. The Ford F-150 EV, the first electric pickup truck, is set to be available in 2021. The new electric truck is likely to be the fastest and most powerful Ford F-150 ever. Currently, it has 450 horsepower and can accelerate from 0-60 in just 4.5 seconds.