Total cost of ownership of alternative powertrain technologies for Class 8 long-haul trucks in the United States

This comprehensive economic analysis evaluates TCO for diesel, battery electric, hydrogen fuel-cell, and hydrogen combustion powertrains for Class 8 tractor-trailers. Key findings show that by 2030, battery electric long-haul trucks will have lower TCO than diesel counterparts in all representative states, despite higher upfront costs. Current battery-electric tractors achieve 13 mpg (diesel equivalent) vs. 7 mpg for diesel, increasing to 18 mpg by 2035. Battery electric trucks also outperform hydrogen options, with green hydrogen needing to cost $3-6.50/kg for fuel-cell parity. The study demonstrates that electrification is critical for decarbonization.