3 ms·
I think the biggest problem, as stated in the article, which I think is being missed by many commenters, is the cost. According to the article, the batteries al
by lpaone 9y ago
I think the biggest problem, as stated in the article, which I think is being missed by many commenters, is the cost. According to the article, the batteries alone (not including the chassis) cost almost as much as a current diesel truck.
Another huge issue is weight. Batteries are extremely heavy and a truck loaded with the batteries needed to have this range would seriously cut into the delivery capacity.
A better 0 emission alternative that is already being tested in real world applications [1] is battery power with a fuel cell range extender. Loop Energy has a fuel cell that is cheaper than diesel per mile with comparable range for the drayage, bus, and port/distribution markets.
Despite Musk's disparaging remarks about fuel-cell tech, until a major breakthrough happens in batteries, fuel cells are the best way to make battery powered heavy-duty trucks a reality from both a cost and practicality stand-point.
[1] - http://www.marketwired.com/press-release/loop-energy-fuel-cell-range-extended-yard-truck-in-operation-2228935.htm http://www.marketwired.com/press-release/loop-energy-fuel-ce...