A methodology to evaluate the competitiveness of electric delivery trucks

► Model based on universal physics, costs and logistics relationships. ► Integrates routing constraints, speed profiles, energy consumption and vehicle costs. ► Key variables include EV, fuel, and battery costs as well as vehicle utilization. ► EVs are more competitive in routes with low speeds and full range utilization. ► Diesel vehicle cost and payload elasticity are roughly ½ the EV cost elasticity. This paper examines the competitiveness of the latest generation of electric delivery trucks. A new model that integrates routing constraints, speed profiles, energy consumption, and vehicle ownership costs is developed. The model is applied to the study the competitiveness of three commercial vehicles: a widely available conventional diesel truck and two brands of electric trucks. Scenarios and breakeven points are calculated and analyzed for a large number parameter combination. The results show that route feasibility, minimum fleet size, distance traveled, battery life, purchase costs, and planning horizon are among the most significant factors affecting commercial electric vehicle competitiveness.