Life-cycle Evaluation of Urban Commercial Electric Vehicles and Their Potential Emission Reduction Impacts

This research quantifies the environmental costs associated with the replacement of diesel trucks with electric vehicles. Lifecycle environmental benefits are quantified both in terms of vehicle manufacturing/salvage and operational emissions reductions using “wells-to-wheels” methodology. The emissions estimation of the two types of vehicles includes CO2, NOx, SO2, PM, CO, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Emissions cost breakeven points are identified at which the cost of operating a conventional fleet and electrical fleet are identical. Although there is a wide range of emissions externality costs per ton, the results show that the emissions differences from replacing a conventional delivery truck with an electric truck can be substantial. The effects of electrification of a certain portion of suitable trucks are quantified for the Oregon statewide fleet and the US nationwide fleet.