Electric Trucks Show Significant Cost Savings Over Diesel Models, Study Finds
Written with artificial intelligence.
A recent study by Transport & Environment reveals that electric trucks can save up to €85,000 over five years compared to diesel trucks, despite a higher initial purchase price. The financial benefits increase significantly with rising fuel costs.
Electric vs. Diesel: The Cost Analysis
According to a new analysis from Transport & Environment (T&E), owning an electric truck can be substantially more cost-effective than a diesel counterpart. The study highlights that a truck purchased in 2026 could yield savings of approximately €85,000 over five years compared to a diesel model.
Key Findings
The analysis compares total ownership costs for electric and diesel trucks across nine major European markets. The countries where electric trucks currently have the lowest total operating costs include:
- Netherlands
- Germany
- Denmark
- Sweden
- France
- Belgium
These markets represent about 46% of new heavy truck registrations in the EU.
Despite the higher upfront cost of electric trucks, T&E estimates that this investment can be recouped within two years of use. Additionally, with escalating fuel prices, potential savings in Germany could reach up to €106,000 over five years. Electric trucks benefit from lower energy and maintenance costs, making them an attractive option for transport companies looking to minimize operational expenses.
Market Trends
Sales of electric trucks are on the rise across Europe, with electric models accounting for 4.8% of registrations in the first half of 2026, up from 3.6% in the same period of 2025. Daimler Truck is notably leading this transition, holding nearly 40% of the electric truck market, which is double its share in the diesel segment.
However, competition is intensifying as Chinese and American manufacturers, such as BYD, begin to offer electric trucks that rival European models both in price and performance. A Chinese electric truck can cost around €210,000, compared to €265,000 for an equivalent European model, resulting in additional savings of €34,000 for German companies over five years. T&E urges European manufacturers to accelerate electric truck production to maintain their market position amid growing international competition.