Low emissions and zero emission vehicles are the future of transportation, this includes the forest sector. However, the sectors heavy loads, rugged terrains and remote location present a new challenge that is yet to be addressed by the Truck OEMs.
FPInnovations’ latest test results show that an Electric Trailer can fill that gap.
+342 HP
+10,000 ft lb
– 20% fuel savings
– 10% Cycle time reduction
– 50% more traction for added safety
– $0.15-25 per km cost reduction
– Reduction of up $2.50 per m³ of wood
Electric log trailers - impacts
Fuel Economy
17.6% on latest fuel economy testing
20.0% + Target fuel reduction
20.0% + Target fuel reduction
GHG Emissions Reduction
> 30kg/100 km
Higher Traction and Mobility
Up to 50% added traction on steep and soft ground
Higher Safety
Added regenerative breaking performance
Noise Reduction
Reduced engine breaking & acceleration
Increased Sustained Speed
Up to +25 km/h
Economics
Actual results may vary depending on configuration, road profiles and other operational factors.
How does the electric trailer work?
Replacement of a conventional semi-trailer axle with an electric drive axle
- Lithium-Ion Battery Pack
- Battery Thermal Management
- Proprietary Control system
- Critical safety features – Driver is always in charge
The electric semi-trailer combined with a conventional tractor create a parallel hybrid configuration
The hybrid electric trailer does not require major infrastructure upgrades. It is a stepping-stone to providing an impactful and viable solution to GHG emission reduction
Next steps
One electric trailer has already been manufactured and tested in Quebec:
- Fuel economy testing completed in to June 2025.
- Winter Operational testing executed in January 2026.
- Winter Operational testing executed in January 2026.
A series of three next-generation trailers (B-Train configuration) are currently in production,
destined for forest operations in Western Canada between 2026 and 2027.
destined for forest operations in Western Canada between 2026 and 2027.
