Electric Heavy Trucks Are Revolutionizing Construction Sites: How the 2025 Shift Is Transforming Material Delivery

The construction industry is experiencing a seismic shift as electric heavy trucks begin rolling onto job sites across the nation. The global heavy-duty electric trucks market size was estimated at USD 1.22 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 20.6% from 2024 to 2030, signaling a transformation that’s reshaping how materials reach construction sites.

The Construction Industry Embraces Electric Power

The construction industry’s need for heavy-duty electric transportation is on the rise, driven primarily by the establishment of zero-emission zones in urban areas and the imperative for construction companies to align with climate targets. Furthermore, in February 2023, Volvo Trucks, a truck manufacturing division of AB Volvo, introduced a range of heavy electric trucks tailored specifically for the construction industry.

This shift isn’t just about environmental compliance. Increasing adoption of battery-powered heavy-duty trucks for applications such as deliveries for retailers and logistics companies and hauling materials to and from construction sites is driving the segment’s growth. Construction companies are discovering that electric trucks offer practical advantages beyond emissions reduction.

Real-World Benefits for Material Delivery

Electric heavy trucks are proving their worth in construction applications through several key advantages. Fortunately, electric construction equipment is much quieter than traditional diesel-fueled machines. Because electric equipment lacks a diesel engine and cooling fan, it comes with less noise and fewer vibrations. This makes machines safer to operate and leaves construction workers feeling less fatigued at the end of the day.

The economic benefits are equally compelling. Electricity is less expensive than diesel fuel, producing large savings over long distances, and electricity rates are relatively stable, providing predictability for fleet operators. A simpler electric drivetrain also reduces maintenance costs. A 2021 study from the Lawrence Berkeley National Lab estimated that an electric semi-truck with a 375-mile range would have a 13% lower total cost of ownership ($1.51 per mile) than a diesel model ($1.73 per mile). This leads to a net savings of $200,000 over the semi-truck’s 15-year lifetime.

Leading Manufacturers Drive Innovation

Major manufacturers are responding to construction industry demand with purpose-built solutions. The Volvo FMX Electric is a robust electric rigid construction truck. It offers a high load capacity, great visibility and is easy to maneuver. Up to four axles makes it a perfect match for collecting waste, construction work and goods deliveries.

The technology is advancing rapidly, with companies like Designwerk developing specialized construction solutions. Thanks to its robust design and a drive power of 680 hp, it can be used on almost any terrain on your construction site. The electric auxiliary drives with a peak output of up to 125 kW allow you to work efficiently.

Infrastructure Development Supports Growth

The charging infrastructure necessary to support electric trucks in construction is expanding rapidly. Under the plan, 27 charging sites for medium-duty EVs would come online along the route by 2025; by 2030, 14 of the sites would add charging for electric big rigs. This infrastructure development is crucial for construction companies that need reliable charging options for their fleet operations.

Local Contractors Preparing for the Electric Future

Regional contractors are positioning themselves for this electric transition. Companies like Emerson Excavating and Trucking, which has been serving Saratoga County with reliable excavation and material delivery services, understand that the future of construction logistics is changing. Emerson Excavating and Trucking has been serving Saratoga County property owners with reliable excavation services for years. We understand the local soil conditions, municipal requirements, and the challenges that come with working around existing structures and utilities.

For contractors seeking reliable Trucking Saratoga County NY services, understanding how electric vehicle adoption will impact material delivery timelines and costs becomes increasingly important. Years of experience in Saratoga, Washington, and Warren Counties means understanding local conditions and regulations.

Market Projections and Industry Impact

The numbers paint a clear picture of industry transformation. The U.S. is expected to have 54,000 electric trucks on the road by 2025. The electric semi-truck market is set to grow 18.3% annually over the next seven years. Construction and Mining Operations: Electric trucks are being utilized in construction and mining sectors, where their high torque and lower operational costs are advantageous. Companies are exploring electric trucks for transporting materials within construction sites and mining operations, aiming to reduce fuel costs and emissions.

Overcoming Implementation Challenges

While the transition presents opportunities, challenges remain. High Initial Purchase Costs: Electric trucks typically have a higher upfront cost compared to diesel counterparts. For instance, a new clean-diesel long-haul tractor costs between $180,000 to $200,000, whereas a comparable battery-electric tractor can cost upwards of $480,000, presenting a substantial financial barrier for many fleet operators.

However, The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) will help address these challenges, and bring forward the cost parity of electric and diesel trucks. The benefits of electric trucks, increased availability of more makes and models, investments in charging infrastructure, the rapid improvement of the upfront and long-term economics, and policy incentives all point to a near-term boom in their adoption.

The Road Ahead

As 2025 unfolds, the construction industry stands at the threshold of a major transformation. Electric heavy trucks are no longer experimental technology but practical solutions addressing real-world construction challenges. From reduced noise pollution on urban job sites to significant long-term cost savings, these vehicles are reshaping how materials reach construction sites.

For construction companies and contractors, the question isn’t whether electric trucks will become standard in material delivery—it’s how quickly they can adapt to leverage these technological advantages. The companies that embrace this shift early will likely find themselves with competitive advantages in both operational efficiency and client satisfaction as the industry continues its electric evolution.