Trucks with clean technologies are slowly becoming a reality in Chile
July 28, 2025
Currently, the mass adoption of electric or hydrogen trucks for long-distance routes in Chile faces significant challenges. The main barrier is the charging and refueling infrastructure. But over time, it will clearly help improve the sustainability of this transport sector.
Chile, with its vast geography and extensive road network, presents unique challenges for freight transport. In this context, the electrification of cargo vehicles and the adoption of more sustainable technologies do not emerge as promising alternatives without major hurdles to overcome.
According to the “2024 Light and Medium Vehicle Sales Report” by the National Automotive Association of Chile (ANAC), the truck sector continues to show progress: the increase in sales of zero or low-emission trucks reached 9.1% in June compared to the previous year.
Currently, it is estimated that around 230,000 trucks circulate in Chile, providing direct employment to over 250,000 people working for more than 40,000 companies in the sector, according to data from the National Confederation of Truck Owners of Chile (CNDC).
Facilitating the energy transition of freight transport involves multiple aspects. Claudio Agostini, professor at the UAI Faculty of Engineering and Sciences, states that “the biggest challenge for the mass adoption of electric trucks is undoubtedly the limited charging infrastructure. It needs to be extended throughout the country, especially along high-traffic highways.” He also notes that hydrogen technology for trucks is still in its early stages but represents a valid option for long distances and, although it requires high initial investment, is a viable alternative for decarbonizing the sector.
From the industry side, the reaction has been positive. Companies that have already received major clients must adapt, significantly increasing investment and delaying the adoption of new technologies. Even so, leading companies such as AIEP have expressed interest in adding electric units to their fleets as conditions for the electrification of this type of transport continue to develop.
High investment.
Ricardo Burdiles, professor at the AIEP School of Engineering, Energy, and Technology, outlines the main challenges currently facing the mass adoption of electric and hydrogen trucks in the country:
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Green hydrogen production is still in its infancy: currently, there is no mature network for sustainable production and distribution.
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High initial investment is required: at present, the cost of acquiring vehicles and related technologies is high.
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Lack of infrastructure: we currently have a limited network of high-power charging stations and hydrogen fueling stations for trucks.
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Limited autonomy: especially in electric trucks, which restricts long-distance routes without recharging.
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Insufficient training: there is still little technical training for mechanics and drivers to operate and maintain this technology.
Therefore, electric and hydrogen trucks are undoubtedly a real and necessary solution for Chile in terms of sustainability and long-distance freight transport. Although the short term presents significant challenges, the medium and long term offer a scenario in which technological maturity, infrastructure development, and a proper regulatory and incentive framework will position these technologies as the future of heavy transport in our country. The transition won’t be instantaneous, but the direction is clear, and the environmental and economic benefits are too important to ignore.