The concept note Shared Charging for e-Trucks by Smart Freight Centre proposes a “third way” of charging electric trucks: shared charging infrastructure. The paper addresses the limitations of both private and public charging solutions in supporting widespread adoption of battery electric trucks (BETs), especially for long-haul logistics. Private charging, while offering control and simplicity, often suffers from low utilization and requires significant investment. Public charging, though accessible, can be costly and insufficient to support entire fleets due to high energy prices and limited availability. Shared charging presents a hybrid alternative that combines the benefits of both models, offering cost efficiency, better utilization, and improved access to charging infrastructure—especially in logistics hotspots.
The Role of Collaboration
Shared charging involves multiple companies collaborating to share infrastructure costs and coordinate usage. This model is particularly promising in areas with heavy freight activity and grid constraints. It enhances grid efficiency by reducing overlapping upgrade requests and supports scalability through usage mapping and flexibility in design. A working group formed by the Fleet Electrification Coalition outlined key principles for successful implementation: maximizing infrastructure utilization, enabling fleet flexibility, and mitigating grid-related delays. Digital solutions such as smart scheduling, remote payment, and real-time monitoring are critical to the model’s success. Innovations like valet services and modular site configurations further help tailor shared charging to real-world operational needs.
Models for Shared Charging
The concept identifies three potential models for initiating shared charging hubs:
- A Charge Point Operator-led approach
- Cooperatives formed by neighboring companies
- Initiatives driven by a single large logistics firm
The note concludes that shared charging is a practical, scalable path toward rapid BET infrastructure deployment. Future research should explore financing, risk-sharing, lease agreements, and regulatory frameworks. Pilot projects are underway, including initiatives at the Port of Rotterdam and along freight corridors in Poland, aimed at demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of shared charging hubs for decarbonizing freight transport.
