July 28, 2025

 

Given its vast geography and complex routes, Chile faces significant challenges in freight transport. To address these complexities and move toward a more sustainable future, sector electrification and the implementation of hydrogen-based technologies are emerging as key solutions.

The National Automotive Association of Chile (ANAC) has highlighted a remarkable increase in the adoption of electrified trucks. In June, according to its latest report on zero and low emission vehicle sales, 11 new electric trucks were added, bringing the annual total to 48 units, marking a 91.1% increase. Of these, 22 are heavy electric trucks (Class 8) designed for demanding routes and large cargo volumes, while 20 are medium-sized trucks, versatile for various productive and logistics operations nationwide.

On the benefits of electric and hydrogen trucks for drivers, companies, and the environment, Ricardo Burbules, director of the School of Engineering, Energy and Technology at AIEP, highlighted:

For drivers:
• Lower exposure to pollutant gases: electric and hydrogen engines do not emit gases that affect driver health, reducing health risks and improving air quality.
• Less noise: electric and hydrogen engines are much quieter than diesel, helping reduce noise pollution.
• Reduced fatigue: due to smoother and quieter driving.
• Advanced AI-based assistance systems: this technology reduces driver workload, helping to handle long hours.

For companies:
• Operational cost savings: the lower cost per kilometer of clean energy vehicles translates into reduced operational costs, especially for mechanical maintenance.
• Incentives: there are government incentives and bonuses from the Ministry of Energy and CORFO, which reduce the initial investment and make acquisition more accessible.

For the environment:
• Engines reduce CO₂ emissions to zero: electric and hydrogen-powered trucks emit no CO₂, NOx, or particulate matter, significantly contributing to climate change mitigation.
• This technology offers a more efficient solution to reduce freight transport emissions compared to second-rate diesel engines.

National challenges

Regarding whether Chile is ready to shift from traditional fuel trucks to electric and hydrogen vehicles, Luis Gutiérrez, academic and researcher at the Center for Energy Transition (CENTRA), Faculty of Engineering and Sciences at UAI, stated:

“There is still a technological and road infrastructure gap. The transition also depends on the public sector, as they are the first to renew their fleets and set the ecosystem in motion. Chile is on the right track in terms of regulations, but the next step is developing a road infrastructure and charging station network to allow electric trucks to travel the country uninterrupted.”

From his perspective, the most significant progress for Chile lies in the urban delivery truck segment. “The greatest challenge is replacing diesel trucks in cities, where pollution and noise levels are highest. That’s where replacement is most urgent. The biggest challenge for electric trucks is that the current charging infrastructure is weak. However, over the next five years, 50 new charging stations are expected to open in the central macrozone, enabling connection with the north and south of the country.”

“As for hydrogen, the challenge is charging infrastructure and production costs. The trucks that currently use H₂ have batteries that allow them to travel over 1,000 km, but for now, it doesn’t seem viable for mass operation in Chile,” added the UAI expert.

Key differences between this new technology and diesel trucks

Benefit Electric & Hydrogen Technology Diesel Trucks
Emissions Zero emissions Polluting
Maintenance cost Low cost High cost
Autonomy Lower (improving) Higher
Infrastructure Weak Extensive