As we all know, the auto industry is currently working on trying to change over to all-electric. That type of vehicle is supposed to eventually take over the future of all production to help save the environment. Ever since Tesla came out with their version of an electric car, we have seen other automotive companies follow suit and produce their version of electric vehicles, as well as autonomous trucks and cars. All of this has now crossed over to the transportation industry. Even though it is in the beginning stages, we are starting to see electric trucks being produced by several major companies and outrunning on the road.
The Environmental Impact of Diesel Trucks
Going electric is all about trying to save the environment that we live in, which is a huge focus right now. Tractor-trailer trucks create a lot of CO2 emissions, which cause harm to the environment and the ozone layer. Also, trucks run off diesel fuel made with crude oil. Trucks would no longer need diesel fuel to run them, helping save the environment from drilling. So, with electric trucks already in production, what does that mean for the future of semi-trailers? Can they become electric, too? The answer is yes! Let’s start with a bit of background first.
COVID-19’s Disruption of Trailer Manufacturing
During the COVID-19 shutdowns, we saw dry vans become scarce. Manufacturing plants had to shut down to prevent the spread of the disease. Parts manufacturers did the same. Once all the plants opened back up, there was a huge lack of parts to produce trailers, causing a shortage. Parts were either not made or stuck in containers waiting in the ocean or at ports. Trailers were in high demand to move products in the ports and distribution centers once everything was finally back up and running. A semi-trailer was almost impossible to purchase, new or used; even if you could find one, it came at an unprecedentedly high price.
Fast-forward to today. As we have come out of the COVID and post-COVID eras, we have seen the market catch up on trailer manufacturing. Orders have slowed down, there is more accessibility, and prices have dropped for dry vans. This has allowed companies to start looking into the future at other avenues and focus on new technology. And yes, this even includes the prototypes of electric semi-trailers, as we see companies currently working on producing them.
The Future: Electrification
Why electric trailers? They can work with non-electric trucks without modifications. Projections show that semi-trailers save approximately a third of the fuel consumption of non-electric trucks. Part of the technology is that they come equipped with a “smart kingpin” that can detect the truck’s braking and acceleration, which also helps with safety.
So, did we ever think we would see all this in our lifetime? Probably not. Since the first vehicle was mass-produced in 1885, vehicles have continued progressing, and so will tractor-trailers. One day, could we be like George Jetson and have flying tractor-trailers? Who knows? We never thought we would be where we are now with technology. Contact us today for all your trailer needs.
