A small US commercial fleet has gradually switched to electric vehicles and is sharing its real-world experience on Reddit, revealing up to 75% savings in fuel and maintenance costs. The fleet operates Ford E-Transit and Rivian EDV vans, documenting everything from charging costs to battery issues.
A small US commercial fleet is transitioning to electric vehicles and posting its real-world experience on Reddit, revealing up to 75% savings in fuel and maintenance costs. The fleet, which operates a mix of Ford E-Transit and Rivian EDV vans, has been sharing weekly updates under a pseudonym since 2024, documenting everything from charging costs to battery failures.
How much did the fleet actually save?
After 18 months of operation, the fleet reported a 75% reduction in fuel and maintenance costs compared to its previous diesel fleet. Key details include:
- Fuel costs: Dropped from $0.28 per mile to $0.07 per mile (average electricity price $0.12/kWh).
- Maintenance: Reduced by 60%, especially with no oil changes or brake replacements needed.
- Charging time: A full charge takes 6 hours on a DC fast charger, but most charging is done overnight at the depot.
What challenges did they face?
The experience wasn’t without problems. Major challenges included:
- Winter range: Range dropped by 25% in extreme cold (below -10°C).
- Battery failure: A Ford E-Transit suffered a battery unit failure that took 3 weeks to repair.
- Public charging: Some public charging stations were broken or occupied, affecting delivery schedules.
Can this work in the Gulf?
In Saudi Arabia and the UAE, where summer temperatures exceed 50°C, the biggest challenge is battery cooling. However, with fast chargers available in major cities and stable power grids, small fleets could achieve similar savings. Estimated charging cost in Saudi Arabia is around SAR 0.18/kWh, which would yield comparable savings.
How much do electric commercial vehicles cost in Saudi Arabia?
The Ford E-Transit starts at an estimated SAR 180,000, while the Rivian EDV is not yet officially available. Government support for electrification may lower the initial cost.
Key facts
- Fuel savings: 75% compared to diesel
- Operating cost per mile: $0.07 (electric) vs $0.28 (diesel)
- Maintenance reduction: 60%
- Winter range loss: 25%
- Full charge time: 6 hours on fast charger
- Vehicles used: Ford E-Transit and Rivian EDV
Frequently asked questions
What is the commercial fleet sharing its experience on Reddit?
A small US commercial fleet that runs light delivery vans, using Ford E-Transit and Rivian EDV vehicles. They post weekly updates on Reddit under a pseudonym.
How much did the fleet save on fuel after going electric?
The fleet saved 75% on fuel costs, with costs dropping from $0.28 per mile to $0.07 per mile.
Do electric vehicles have problems in hot climates like the Gulf?
Yes, extreme heat affects the battery and reduces range. However, active cooling systems and fast chargers in the Gulf can help achieve similar savings. Estimated charging cost in Saudi Arabia is about SAR 0.18/kWh.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the commercial fleet sharing its experience on Reddit?
A small US commercial fleet that runs light delivery vans, using Ford E-Transit and Rivian EDV vehicles. They post weekly updates on Reddit under a pseudonym.
How much did the fleet save on fuel after going electric?
The fleet saved 75% on fuel costs, with costs dropping from $0.28 per mile to $0.07 per mile.
Do electric vehicles have problems in hot climates like the Gulf?
Yes, extreme heat affects the battery and reduces range. However, active cooling systems and fast chargers in the Gulf can help achieve similar savings. Estimated charging cost in Saudi Arabia is about SAR 0.18/kWh.
Sources
- Electrek — This fleet is going electric, and sharing their real-world results (and savings) online
