Given the discussions we had with our trucking clients, we don't believe that long-distance

electric vehicles (EVs) in commercial fleets are (1) viable for drivers, (2) that this will be a good

trade-off for the environment and human flourishing, and (3) that the grid would support it.

#1 — EVs in Commercial Fleets Are Not Viable for Drivers

As far as viable, truckers are limited to 13 hours of driving. An electric charge is not going to get

them through that time.

If they lose a few hours to charging, it's more than just a few hours. That few hours can leave

them stranded a few hours from home or prolong their getting the load to their destination for

an entire day.

Refueling of EVs in commercial fleets is not a matter of simply driving up and topping off. It can

take hours to recharge fully. However, most parking spaces along major trucking routes are not

equipped to handle recharging these big rigs.

There are some positive stories out there on EV Trucks and power, but for the most part, it

appears that trucks are not at the place where they routinely pull 80,000 pounds up the hill.

This might not be a significant concern in Kansas or Nebraska, but in CA, we have the

Grapevine’s Tejon Pass, the Donner Pass on I-80, Ebbetts Pass and Sonora Pass along SR #108,

and many others.

Basically, truckers hate the idea of electric trucks for long distances. It would make their jobs

much more difficult and less profitable.

#2 — EVs Are Not a Good Trade-Off for the Environment

The extra time on the road will increase costs substantially to deliver goods and add time to

safe delivery.A good portion of electric power is generated by natural gas and even coal, so it's not that

much of a win for the climate — add to that the environmental consequences of what will have

to be done to create the huge truck batteries.

Well, it's not a one-sided discussion. The strong advocates often have a more religious belief in

electronics rather than an actual scientific basis for believing it's a net positive.

The costs of goods will also go up dramatically because EVs in commercial fleets will be so much

more expensive to operate. That's why many truck owners in California are buying diesel

vehicles or internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles while they still can.

#3 — The CA Power Grid Can’t Handle the Added Stress

The grid just can't handle it. We narrowly avoided blackouts this summer. The Governor had to

beg everyone not to recharge their EVs at certain times of day. If all these trucks are added to

the grid, it's going to really blow things up.

In summary, although there are many opinions out there about the viability of EVs in

commercial fleets, the truckers we talk to daily and frequently defend in traffic court are the

ones who will suffer the inconvenience, but the American consumer will suffer the higher costs.

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is only interested in regulating the use of fossil fuel

vehicles, not how it will affect the power grid, driver hours and truck performance, and

consumer prices.

Why Commercial Drivers with Traffic Tickets Choose Bigger & Harman to Challenge Those

in Court

The human element—the commercial drivers—is pivotal in this shift. Drivers, especially those in

commercial sectors like charter buses and trucking, are more exposed to potential traffic

violations. And when they face such situations, they often seek the most reliable legal counsel

to challenge these tickets in court. That’s where we come in.

We at Bigger & Harman understand the unique challenges faced by commercial drivers. Our

experienced team is well-versed in dealing with moving violations and DOT FMCSA “serious

offenses.”We understand how a traffic ticket — even a minor infraction — can jeopardize a driver's

livelihood; therefore, we're dedicated to providing the best possible defense. Why do so many

choose us?

1. Free Initial Consultation: We believe in transparency. Before engaging with us, drivers can benefit from a free initial consultation where we discuss the specifics of their case.
2. Flat Rate Fee: Commercial drivers often fear escalating legal costs. But with us, they find reassurance. We offer a flat rate fee that remains unchanged, no matter how many court appearances we must make on their behalf.
3. Experience & Knowledge: With our deep understanding of the nuances related to moving violations and serious offenses, we provide unmatched expertise in defending our clients.

In these times of change, we remain committed to defending the rights and careers of

commercial drivers across California.

Commercial drivers with pending traffic tickets in Roseville, CA Traffic Court often contact

Bigger & Harman for legal advice at (661) 349-9300 or email attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.

Alternatively, you can use the convenient online contact form.

Download our e-book, Protecting Your Commercial Driver License.

Se habla Español (661) 349-9755.

References:

The DMV Portal CA Commercial Driver Handbook.