CDK's Marleen De Winter on the potential of electric trailers | Trucks, Parts, Service

As the automotive industry accelerates towards electrification, the progress in electric heavy-duty trucks has been nothing short of transformative. Significant strides in battery technology and vehicle range make electric trucks a viable option for various applications, from terminal tractors to heavy-duty regional haul rigs.

However, the electrification of truck trailers might steal the spotlight with their overall performance improvements and extended total range. Yet, as with any new technology, there are still some considerations and potential challenges to monitor.

Leading the charge in electric trailer innovation is Range Energy, a key player in the powered trailer market. With a recent $23.5 million funding boost from investors including Trousdale Ventures, UP.Partners, R7 and Yamaha Motor Ventures, Range Energy launched a 53-ft., trailer called RA-01 that features a 200-kilowatt-hour battery and an 800-volt e-axle powertrain, which is capable of delivering up to 10,326 lb.-ft, of torque. Notably, the RA-01 trailer is compatible with both electric and diesel-powered tractors, requiring no modifications.

According to fuel-economy testing firm Mesilla Valley Transportation Solutions, Range’s electric trailers can improve fuel efficiency by up to 36.9%, translating to an increase of 3.25 miles per gallon for semi trucks. This significant boost in fuel efficiency not only reduces fuel consumption, but also lowers operational costs for fleet operators. Furthermore, these trailers have the potential to double the range of electric semi trucks, offering a substantial boost to the operational capabilities of electric freight solutions.

Ali Javidan, Founder and CEO of Range Energy, highlights that electric trailers could extend the service intervals for both tractor and trailer brakes. This is due to regenerative braking, which recovers energy during deceleration. This reduces the reliance on traditional friction brakes, thereby extending brake pad life. This technology will lessen the strain on tractor engines and drivetrains, allowing maintenance personnel to focus on more strategic tasks.

While the integration of electric trailers will not disrupt standard maintenance schedules, routine checks such as tire inspections, light functionality and lubrication of moving parts will remain essential for maintaining safety, reliability, and performance. Regular cleaning will also be necessary to prevent rust and corrosion, ensuring the longevity and performance of the trailer.

Despite their advantages, electric trailers do present some challenges. They are heavier than traditional gas trailers, which can impact tire wear. Additionally, electric trailers experience high instant torque, which contributes to increased wear as the rapid acceleration adds more strain on the tires. The greater mass and inertia also contribute to longer braking distances, requiring the tires to manage more force during braking, further affecting their durability. As a result, tires for electric trailers need stronger construction and more robust rubber compounds to handle the additional weight and torque, which can lead to overall increased tire expense.

The cost of electric trailers is higher compared to conventional models, and with cargo theft on the rise — up 57% in 2023 over the previous year — there is an increased focus on security. More electric trailer companies will need to incorporate advanced security measures to exceed customer expectations. For example, going back to Range Energy, they’re enhancing security by including live telematics, remote monitoring, and lockout capabilities for the eAxle. These features are powered by the trailer’s on-board energy storage, providing enhanced security compared to conventional trailers.

The future of electric trailers holds even more promise with developments like ZF’s eTrailer and Revov’s innovative solutions. ZF’s eTrailer, equipped with the AxTrax2 e-drive axle, offers up to 16% fuel savings and reduced carbon emissions. By converting a heavy-duty diesel truck into a hybrid vehicle through its energy-recuperation system, ZF enhances efficiency and supports sustainability in goods movement. This innovation not only reduces fuel consumption and emissions, but also improves logistics by harnessing and reusing braking energy, paving the way for more eco-friendly transportation solutions.

South African startup Revov is also making strides with its trailer featuring a pre-charged battery that can be attached between the tractor and the trailer. This setup provides significant extra power, potentially reducing emissions by 70-80%.

As trailer electrification continues to evolve, these advancements could play a crucial role in the broader goals of cutting down the carbon footprint of freight operations and improving energy efficiency.

For industry professionals, keeping an eye on these developments is essential as they may soon transform the landscape of heavy-duty trucking.

Marleen De Winter is a product marketing lead for CDK Global's Heavy Truck Division.