Electric vehicles (EVs) are predicted to be the vehicle of the future. Automotive manufacturers are now competing to produce more environmentally friendly cars and motorcycles.

Electric vehicles are increasingly being adopted not just for passenger use, but also in the logistics sector. Many battery-powered trucks are now being used to improve the efficiency of the logistics process, especially in distribution.

However, considering the need for logistics transportation fleets to carry loads with various weights, would electric vehicles replace the role of conventional trucks? What future awaits electric vehicles and the challenges they pose? Discover more below.

1. Charging Station Infrastructure

Charging infrastructure remains limited, particularly for fast-charging stations on highways, in industrial areas, and between cities.

Quoting from antaranews.com, our government, through PLN, has planned to build more than 60,000 Public Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCS), which are targeted to be completed by 2030.

2. Mileage & Battery Life Limitations

Electric trucks currently have an average range of 200-300 km per charge. It’s equivalent to inner-city routes, making the trucks less ideal for long trips.

3. High Initial Costs and Incentives Needed

The purchase price of an electric truck is higher than that of a diesel truck, which now costs around Rp1–2 billion.

4. Operating Costs & Long-term Efficiency

However, despite the high initial cost, the operational cost of electric trucks is considered lower. Employers can save on fuel expenses, as well as on minimal maintenance and potentially receive tax breaks.

A number of studies suggest that potential savings can be realized in the long run, especially if mileage, electricity, and spare parts costs continue to be competitive.

5. Market Opportunities & Government Policies

Our government continues to actively encourage the adoption of electric vehicles, with a target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2060, Domestic Component Level (TKDN) incentives and tax exemptions for electric vehicles.

As reported by reuters.com, our government is partnering with a Vietnamese automotive manufacturer, VinFast, to build 100,000 charging stations in Indonesia to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles.

6. Electric Truck Usage

Electric trucks are considered suitable only for short-distance logistics delivery within cities and areas with adequate infrastructure.

Meanwhile, for long routes, especially in remote areas, the use of electric trucks is considered less optimal until the infrastructure is proportionately distributed.

Pros and Cons of Electric Vehicles in the Logistics Industry

Pros:

The future of efficiency and sustainability (ESG)
Possibility of low operating costs
Strong policy support

Cons:

Lack of infrastructure and charging
High initial price
Limited mileage

Despite all the conditions and challenges, the use of electric vehicles in the logistics sector is not impossible, although it’s still significantly considered ineffective.

Regardless of the fleet used, the logistics process must continue to maintain the supply chain. Choosing the right trucking services helps increase efficiency, safety, customer satisfaction, as well as support for the growth and success of your business.

Therefore, take some time to research and compare the available options, and finally choose a trusted logistics partner to ensure a secure and smooth delivery of your products.

Choosing the ideal trucking service is a long-term investment for your business. By considering the key things and additional tips above, you can select a logistics partner that will help your business grow and thrive.

SELOG Trucking Services

One of the logistics service providers offering trucking services is SELOG, a subsidiary of PT Serasi Autoraya (SERA) and part of the Astra Group.

SELOG is committed to offer a comprehensive and end-to-end logistics services, from Trucking, Shipping, Freight Forwarding, Warehousing, and Project Cargo.

As a provider of professional and high-quality trucking service to meet various challenges, SELOG is the right choice, backed by over 20 years of experience in the logistics industry.

SELOG Trucking Services offers a wide range of trucks that ensure quality and security. To enhance its services, SELOG utilises Astra Fleet Management Solution (AstraFMS), a digital technology that bring greater convenience, effectiveness, and efficiency to businesses.

Through AstraFMS, SELOG provides businesses in Indonesia with integrated IT-based solutions for vehicle management.

For more information about SELOG services, visit www.selog.astra.co.id or contact (021) 26605333.

Follow SELOG on Instagram @selog_astra and SELOG LinkedIn for the latest updates and insights on logistics.