Future in Motion is a technical series presenting the key findings from the completed Zero-Emission Trucking Testbed Project led by the PIT Group and FPInnovations. This project was conducted with support from Transport Canada’s Zero-Emission Trucking Program and in collaboration with two major fleets in the Greater Montreal region: Loblaw Companies Limited and Martin Brower of Canada Co.
Driver Acceptance and Operational Insights from Heavy‑Duty Electric Truck Trials
This article focuses on driver acceptance of heavy‑duty battery‑electric trucks and the ways drivers adapted their habits to get the most from these new vehicles.
Feedback from drivers and fleet management was gathered through on‑route observations, individual interviews, and group discussions. Twelve drivers participated, with truck driving experience ranging from 2 to 40 years. Across the group, drivers expressed a clear preference for the electric trucks, praising their quiet operation, smooth power delivery, and strong performance on steep grades. The only recurring frustration stemmed from charging errors—when a previous driver failed to plug in the truck correctly, the next driver had to take a diesel unit instead.
Drivers consistently reported that the electric trucks were far quieter and produced less vibration than diesel models, creating a more comfortable work environment and potentially improving long‑term well‑being. Cabin comfort in warm weather matched diesel trucks, but winter operation required compromises. To conserve battery energy, drivers often reduced cabin heating and wore winter jackets, noting that maintaining warmth without reducing range was a constant balancing act.
A full year of monitoring revealed clear behavioural trends, particularly around regenerative braking. Volvo VNR electric trucks achieved a higher average daily regeneration percentage (12.1%) than the Freightliner eCascadia (7.5%). Drivers used regenerative braking less in winter due to traction concerns, and several found the Freightliner’s deceleration more aggressive, leading them to disable the feature more often. These patterns highlight the importance of well‑calibrated regenerative braking systems and the value of targeted driver training to maximize energy recovery.
Public reaction to the electric trucks was overwhelmingly positive, and drivers appreciated safety features such as blind‑spot monitoring and lane‑keeping assistance.
The main limitation identified was the range. While well‑suited to many routes, the electric trucks could not yet handle the longer runs that many drivers prefer because they involve fewer stops. Even so, most drivers expressed strong enthusiasm for the technology and looked forward to future improvements in range, heating efficiency, and regenerative braking control.
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