August 21, 2024 Safety Issues Surrounding Big Rig Electric Vehicles

With the arrival of electric semi-trucks like the Tesla Semi, a seismic shift has begun to take place, but there’s a potential human cost.

Over the long haul, traditional internal combustion big rigs have held a firm grip on their “king of the road” status. However, with the arrival of electric semi-trucks like the Tesla Semi, a seismic shift has begun to take place. In the not-too distant future, these electric big rigs will likely become commonplace, but there are still plenty of hurdles to navigate along the way.

As the transportation industry undergoes a revolutionary change towards sustainability, big rig electric vehicles (EVs) have emerged as key players in reducing carbon emissions and promoting a cleaner future. However, as with any technological advancement, the adoption of big rig EVs comes with a variety of safety concerns. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the safety issues surrounding these electric titans of the highway, and explore the measures being taken to promote a smoother transition towards a greener road ahead.

Here are 5 legitimate big rig EV safety concerns, and ways in which they are being addressed.

1. Battery Fire Risks

One of the main concerns associated with big rig EVs is that of their cutting-edge battery technology. The enormous size of these vehicles calls for massive battery packs, raising fear about the potential for thermal runaway events and fire risks. While lithium-ion batteries, the predominant technology in EVs, have demonstrated to be generally safe, damage to these batteries can result in devastating injuries.

Manufacturers are actively addressing this worry by implementing robust battery management systems and utilizing advanced materials to enhance the overall safety of battery packs. Moreover, ongoing research is dedicated on developing next-generation battery technologies that not only improve energy density but also lessen safety hazards associated with severe and dangerous thermal events.

2. Dangers of Excessive Vehicle Weight

The weight distribution of big rig EVs, primarily due to the extremely heavy battery packs, raises serious concerns about road safety. For instance, Tesla Semi’s battery weighs approximately 10,000 lbs., which is obviously a massive weight to haul. The main worry with these heavy batteries is the safety risk brought on when this now much heavier truck is speeding down the highway. Breaking becomes more difficult, and if a crash ensues with a vehicle of this size and weight, the outcome can be catastrophic.

Furthermore, traditional infrastructure and road designs may not be adequately equipped to handle the increased weight of an electric semi-truck. This issue becomes particularly significant during adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rain or snow, which can intensify road safety challenges.

Manufacturers are working on designing electric trucks with optimized weight distribution and improved braking systems to alleviate these concerns. Collaboration with transportation authorities is essential to ensure that roads and bridges can accommodate the weight of big rig EVs safely. Manufacturers must also understand that braking components should be adjusted for EV-specific use, and not just apply traditional big rig brakes on their electrified equivalents.

3. Charging Infrastructure and Range Limitations

Big rig EVs rely heavily on an extensive charging infrastructure to ensure long-haul capabilities. The lack of a comprehensive charging network poses challenges for these heavy-duty electric vehicles, leading to concerns about range capabilities. Unlike passenger vehicles, semi-trucks cover vast distances, and ensuring a reliable charging network along major transportation routes is vital.

To address this, stakeholders are collaborating to develop a nationwide network of high-capacity charging stations strategically placed along major thoroughfares. Private companies, governments, and electric utilities are investing in the expansion of charging infrastructure to alleviate range concern and make the implementation of big rig EVs more viable. 

4. Cybersecurity Weaknesses

Unfortunately, the integration of advanced technology, connectivity, and autonomous features in big rig EVs opens the door to cybersecurity weaknesses. As these vehicles become more interconnected, there is a greater risk of cyberattacks that could jeopardize safety-critical systems.  

To lessen these risks, manufacturers are investing in tough cybersecurity measures, including secure communication protocols, over-the-air updates, and intrusion detection systems. Collaboration with cybersecurity experts and regulatory bodies is essential to establish industry-wide standards that prioritize the security of big rig EVs.

5. Driver Adaptation and Training

Moving from diesel trucks to big rig EVs requires a considerable shift in driver adaption and training. Electric semi-trucks operate differently, with distinctive charging protocols and handling characteristics. Ensuring that drivers are well-trained to handle these technological advancements is imperative for their safety and those they share the road with.

Negligence in this area will create hazardous conditions that may result in higher loads of truck accident lawsuits.  This can be avoided by investing in comprehensive training programs for workers, covering the nuances of electric vehicle operation, emergency protocols, and charging procedures. Programs like these serve to increase EV knowledge and empower truck drivers to safely operate these type of vehicles.

Final Thoughts

The shift to big rig EVs represents a momentous step towards a more sustainable future. While safety concerns exist, they are currently being addressed through technological innovations, infrastructure development, and comprehensive training programs. As the ramp-up of big rig EVs continue, a collective effort is needed to safely venture ahead and ensure that these massive, electric vehicles become a secure and reliable source of transportation.

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