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Yes and no. Cost of fuel is also a big factor. A big rig is typically running about 6 MPG, and for lighter loads that doesn't change very much if you're hauli
by mdorazio 9y ago
Yes and no. Cost of fuel is also a big factor. A big rig is typically running about 6 MPG, and for lighter loads that doesn't change very much if you're hauling a half-size or full-size container. Sending two trucks means burning twice as much fuel, which could easily be hundreds of dollars.
But definitely that's less of a factor with an electric truck since the charging cost will be a lot lower than a comparable amount of fuel.
- tyrw 9y agoCost of fuel will also be greatly reduced for the use cases within electric range: - Removing the driver allows for more aerodynamic cab configuration, or no cab at all - Electric motors are more efficient, particularly in high-torque / low-rpm environment - Massive & inefficient 18-speed gearbox can be avoided - Cost of fuel itself (electricity) is much cheaper
- patrickg_zill 9y agoI think the bigger savings will come in being able to precisely control stops, starts, and turning, which will both minimize damage to the road surface and lengthen tire life. ISTR a case where a large open pit mine bought GPS-driven trucks and saved a great deal just from longer tire life (each tire was $20K).
- derefr 9y agoRe: gearbox, I wonder whether an autonomous truck could be paired with a little scouting drone to "look ahead" at things like blind corners or stop-and-go traffic, to allow the truck enough foreknowledge to gear up and down more gradually.