Charging Ahead: Economic and Logistical Considerations for the Electric Freight Transition in South Texas

ABSTRACT: Freight tonnage transported in the U.S. is projected to grow by 1.6% annually between 2023 and 2050 (Bureau of Transportation Statistics 2024). The electrification of truck freight transportation is essential for meeting emission reduction targets (Hoehne et al. 2023). The prospect of widespread battery electric truck adoption has continued to improve due to public and private investment, technology advancement, cost-benefit enhancement, and policy support. The implications for South Texas are significant due to the region’s strategic geographic location and reliance on the freight industry. Recent research has shown that electric freight vehicles enable substantial cost and environmental advantages compared to diesel alternatives (Phadke et al. 2021). Limited charging infrastructure and high initial costs present significant barriers to the adoption of electric freight trucks in South Texas. This paper explores the economic and logistical challenges to electric freight truck adoption in South Texas and discusses the implications for policymakers to consider, including strategies for improving infrastructure, reducing costs, and supporting industry adoption. Solving the challenges of infrastructure and technological advancement is crucial for realizing the full potential of electric freight in South Texas, both operationally and economically. This paper highlights the need for greater coordination among industry leaders, policymakers, and regulators to address these barriers, paving the way for a successful transition and setting a model for future freight transportation. KEYWORDS: Freight electrification, charging infrastructure, sustainable transportation, electric trucks