NACFE has long recognized the important role drivers play in the safe and efficient operation of commercial vehicles. We don't expect this to change as the industry transitions to battery electric vehicles. In fact, we believe driver acceptance will be key to the success in the scaling of EVs.

During the preparation leading up to Run on Less – Electric, we talked to all 13 of the drivers who will be behind the wheel of the 13 EVs participating in the Run. They were very open with us about what they liked about EVs—the reduced noise, the torque and pick up, the fact that there are no emissions which means no diesel headaches. And let’s not forget the cool factor of EVs. In fact, we can conclude that they love them and we now have a dedicated video to their thoughts:

We believe strongly that drivers will be key to the success of EVs, so much so that we focused the last training in our Electric Truck Bootcamp on them. Speaking during the training, Jim Castelaz, CTO and founder of Motiv Power Systems, said that while EVs and diesel-powered diesel look similar, they are different, and drivers and other staff members need to get comfortable with those differences. To assist with the transition, Motiv offers training that introduces the company’s truck, explains how EVs are different, and then reviews general operating procedures like starting the vehicle, driving and accelerating, charging, safety procedures, and more.

Ken Marko, senior national fleet sustainability manager, PepsiCo/Frito-Lay, said that initially, drivers may have some concerns about EVs surrounding range and reliability. The company addresses those concerns through a training presentation which includes a vehicle walkaround, as well as information on proper vehicle operation, conducting pre- and post-trip inspections, and regenerative braking.

Julie Johnson, enterprise business development, Lightning eMotors, had practical advice for drivers who are new to EVs. Her advice included not accelerating too rapidly and using regenerative braking whenever possible.

When asked to give drivers one piece of advice about EVs, Castelaz said, “Plug it in and be patient. Learn its capabilities. Get used to regenerative braking and use it.”

Marko added, “Be open-minded because there are things about how it operates that are different. And be receptive to regenerative braking.”

Johnson echoed Marko’s advice and added, “Drivers should provide feedback and ask questions.”

Through the years, truck drivers have proven how resilient they are and have adapted to many changes in trucking technology. I don't expect things to be any different with EVs. Drivers will always be a key factor in the efficiency and profitability of the fleets they work for.

Michael Roeth has worked in the commercial vehicle industry for nearly 30 years, most recently as executive director of the North American Council for Freight Efficiency. He currently serves on the second National Academy of Sciences Committee on Technologies and Approaches for Reducing the Fuel Consumption of Medium and Heavy-Duty Vehicles and has held various positions in engineering, quality, sales and plant management with Navistar and Behr/Cummins.