Electric cars are becoming increasingly popular as consumers shift towards more environmentally friendly options, but the heavy commercial vehicle sector is lagging behind. Heavy vehicles emit a significant amount of CO2 due to their constant use, and traditional manufacturers are struggling to keep up with the demand for climate-friendly models. Only a few manufacturers, such as BYD in China, are focusing solely on electric motors for heavy vehicles.
The market for heavy commercial vehicles is dominated by just a few producers globally, which has stifled competition and innovation in this sector. Despite increasing regulations and emissions targets, the production of zero-emission heavy vehicles remains low, with less than 2% of global production meeting these standards. In Europe, electric trucks are still a niche market, with the majority of heavy vehicles being sold with diesel engines.
To accelerate growth in this sector, experts suggest electrifying logistics on short and medium distances and expanding the charging network. Switzerland has shown potential for pioneering advancements in electric truck technology, with innovations like a charging station with a container-sized battery to support power-hungry trucks. However, there is still a need for greater investment and commitment from traditional manufacturers to transition heavy commercial vehicles to more sustainable, zero-emission models to meet international climate targets.
