Driving electric trucks

The climate crisis and the widespread implementation of Low Emission Zones (LEZ) are posing new challenges, and requiring significant changes to the road haulage sector. Of the alternative energy types available today, electricity is the most effective means of decarbonising your operations in urban applications, while remaining competitive. 

An electric truck uses an electric motor which consumes electrical energy. Batteries store the electrical energy necessary for the truck to operate, which dictates its driving range. 

A battery is made up of a set of cells connected in modules, which are packaged inside the batteries. They are monitored by the battery management system (BMS). This is an electronic component that safeguards the electric truck and battery against premature ageing and fire if used inappropriately. The energy density is increased thanks to the use of Lithium-ion NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) cells, which have an excellent power/weight ratio and thus offer the best compromise between operating range and payload.

Renault Trucks commitments

We rely on a sustainable supply chain and conduct supply chain audits with our suppliers, including the cobalt mines themselves. The batteries are assembled in Europe. The vehicles are assembled in France.

Recycling is the responsibility of Renault Trucks once the batteries are returned to the dealer. The second life of batteries opens up multiple opportunities such as electricity storage equipment in off-grid houses and buildings or even solar plants. Recycling is also essential for guaranteeing a sustainable electromobility solution. Renault Trucks and the Volvo Group are fully involved in this area, which is developing progressively as the market is growing. 

An electric truck is recharged using an adapted socket with alternating current (AC) for slow charging or using a direct current (DC) charger for rapid charging. Thanks to our innovation, Renault Trucks can offer a wide array of sustainable charging solutions, suited to your operation and your requirements. Renault Trucks charging solutions can be adapted to provide greater flexibility. We can also provide you with support in deciding upon the charging mode best suited to maintaining your profitability and advise you on how to recharge your electric trucks.

Discover how to install and maintain the charging infrastructures: read more!

Today, capital cost of purchasing an electric truck is more than an equivalent ICE truck. However, it’s important to think of the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for an electric truck because when in use, the cost of an electric truck rapidly approaches that of its diesel counterpart, and even tends to continue to be more cost effective. Indeed, the maintenance costs are lower and the cost of energy is less than that of fossil fuel.

Learn more about the cost of electric trucks: read more!

The road haulage sector must rise to the challenge of reducing CO2 emissions and meet the targets set by the climate agreements. At Renault Trucks, we are committed to energy transition and will be at your side as you decarbonise your business. We are convinced that electrical energy is the most mature solution for reducing emissions. It is for this reason that in 2023 we shall be expanding our range of 100% electric heavy commercial vehicles with the addition of Renault Trucks E-Tech C and Renault Trucks E-Tech T. 

Preorder a Renault Trucks E-Tech T or C

*marketed in 2023

**based on 6 packs of 94 kWh batteries

View our 'How To' videos to discover how to get the best out of your E-Tech vehicle.