Electric long-haul delivery proves faster and cheaper for Australian trucking

A major milestone in Australia’s transport sector has been reached, with the first fully electric inter-city freight delivery completed between a warehouse and end customers. The delivery was not only cheaper than traditional diesel transport but also faster, signalling a shift toward more efficient freight solutions.

The operation was carried out by New Energy Transport (NET), which coordinated the movement of a bulk shipment of Who Gives A Crap toilet paper from Sydney to Canberra. The journey used an electric prime mover for the long-haul leg, followed by electric last-mile delivery vehicles provided by logistics company ANC.

According to NET’s Daniel Bleakley, the total energy cost for the approximately 460 km trip was around 85% lower than a comparable diesel-powered journey. The electric prime mover, manufactured by Windrose and equipped with a 700 kWh battery, was able to complete the entire route on a single charge.

Performance was also improved. Unlike diesel trucks, which can lose speed on inclines, the electric truck maintained consistent performance over hilly terrain and completed the trip roughly 25 minutes faster than a diesel equivalent.

This development comes at a time when diesel prices remain high, partly influenced by global instability such as ongoing Middle East tensions. These rising costs have placed significant pressure on Australia’s trucking industry, particularly smaller operators who are struggling to remain viable.

Bleakley stated that this delivery demonstrates how electric freight can reduce dependence on volatile fuel markets while improving supply chain resilience. He also highlighted the need for major transport users, including supermarkets, to support the transition toward electric logistics.

One of the main challenges for operators is the upfront investment required. While a diesel prime mover typically costs around $250,000, fuel expenses over a decade can reach approximately $2 million. In contrast, electric trucks have a higher initial price—around $450,000 to $500,000—but significantly lower ongoing energy costs.

This shift in cost structure presents a barrier for many operators, who must manage the higher initial capital outlay before benefiting from long-term savings. However, additional advantages include quieter operation, reduced driver fatigue, and faster trip times.

Currently, around 140 electric trucks are in operation across Australia, mostly within urban and short-distance logistics. However, Bleakley suggests that long-haul routes may offer even greater economic benefits, as fuel savings become more substantial over longer distances.

Windrose representative James Walmsley noted that their electric trucks can travel up to 670 km at a combined mass of 49 tonnes and can recharge in approximately one hour, making them competitive with diesel vehicles for long-distance freight.

Despite these advantages, further investment in charging infrastructure is required. Bleakley emphasised that government support will be critical in accelerating adoption, particularly through infrastructure funding, subsidies, and incentives to offset upfront costs.

Simon Griffiths, co-founder and CEO of Who Gives A Crap, highlighted the environmental importance of transitioning supply chains. He stated that integrating electric freight into operations shows that sustainable transport solutions are already practical and effective for Australian businesses.

Source: The Driven This article is a rewritten summary based on publicly available reporting.