By DEE-ANN DURBIN
AP Auto Writer
DETROIT (AP) _ Electric trucks are having a moment in the spotlight, but they won’t replace diesel-powered trucks in big numbers until they overcome costs and other limitations.
Tesla Inc. plans to unveil a semi tractor-trailer this week. German automaker Daimler AG showed off its own electric semi last month. And truck rental company Ryder just added 125 all-electric vans to its fleet.
Global sales of pure electric trucks are expected to grow. There were about 4,100 sold globally last year; Navigant Research says that’s expected to grow to 70,600 by 2026.
Regulations and incentives are boosting interest, and battery costs are falling rapidly. But analysts say it will still take years for electric trucks to be cost-competitive with diesels. Semis will also need new highway charging stations in order to complete cross-country routes.
