Outdated rules stall Australia's shift to cost-saving electric trucks

Australian businesses could cut costs and pollution by switching to electric trucks—but outdated rules and a lack of support are holding them back. A new report from the Electric Vehicle Council highlights five key changes needed to help heavy-duty electric trucks operate more efficiently across the country. The council’s report reveals that electric trucks face unfair restrictions compared to diesel vehicles. Local night-time curfews, designed to limit noise from older trucks, prevent electric fleets from running 24/7. ANC Delivers, a logistics company, estimates that allowing its 100 electric vehicles to operate in the evening could lift productivity by 25% and reduce failed deliveries.

Australia also imposes stricter weight limits and route maps for electric trucks than other nations. Countries like the UK, USA, and China permit heavier loads and broader road access, helping businesses save money. Here, lower axle mass limits and outdated regulations add unnecessary costs. The biggest hurdle remains the high upfront price of electric trucks. Unlike firms in the UK or New Zealand, Australian businesses receive no financial incentives to offset purchase costs. The report notes that companies could save up to $150 per truck every day by switching to electric—but only if rules on weight, noise, and access are reformed. To speed up adoption, the council recommends point-of-sale incentives, more charging stations, and updated transport laws. Without these changes, Australia risks falling further behind in cutting emissions and freight expenses.

The report makes clear that electric trucks could lower costs and pollution for Australian businesses. But without policy reforms and financial support, companies will continue missing out on savings and cleaner operations. The council’s proposed changes aim to bring Australia in line with global standards for heavy-duty electric transport.