Energy Insiders - a RenewEconomy Podcast Electric trucks and buses and the grid
Apr 17, 2025
Gareth Ridge, Country Manager for EV at Zenobe, shares his insights on transforming commercial transport with electric trucks. He discusses the innovative concept of providing electric trucks as a service, offering sustainable solutions through the use of old batteries. The conversation dives into challenges faced by the grid and logistics sectors, including smart charging technologies and funding dynamics. Ridge also highlights collaborations, such as the one with Woolworths, that are paving the way for the electrification of transport, showcasing a vibrant future for sustainable mobility.
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Off-Site Charging Solution
- Zenobe created an off-site charging facility for Woolworths to solve grid and land constraints.
- They use second-life batteries to mitigate peak grid demand and lower costs at the Mascot site.
Long-Term Electric Truck Economics
- Electric trucks become economically viable around 10-15 years with longer contracts.
- Higher upfront costs are offset by lower operational expenses and battery second-life sales.
Declining Battery Costs
- Battery costs for trucks are dropping due to more supply and better energy density.
- Heavier trucks still have a 2-3 times cost premium compared to diesel vehicles.