Electric vs Diesel Commercial Trucks: Total Cost of Ownership in Canada
Electric vs Diesel Commercial Trucks: Total Cost of Ownership in Canada
Posted on September 1, 2025
In Canada, choosing between an electric and a diesel commercial truck is not only about power. It is also about the money you spend to keep it running. Many owners are looking at the total cost of ownership more than ever. This means thinking about fuel, maintenance, and the life of the truck. In a country as big as ours, with cold winters and long roads, the choice matters even more.
Fuel Costs That Add Up Over Time
Electric trucks can save a lot on fuel. Charging costs are often lower than buying diesel, especially if your business can charge trucks overnight at your depot. In Ontario, the cost for a full charge is usually less than filling a diesel tank. Over months and years, this difference becomes huge. Diesel prices can change quickly and can be higher in remote areas. Electric trucks do not have this same problem, though public charging on the road can be more expensive than home charging.
Maintenance That Feels Lighter
Electric trucks have fewer moving parts. They do not need oil changes, and the brakes last longer because of regenerative braking. This means fewer service visits and lower costs over time. Diesel trucks need more regular servicing. Oil, filters, and exhaust after-treatment systems all add to the bill. For fleets, where trucks work in snow, ice, and heavy rain, electric trucks can be easier to keep in top shape.
Range and Where You Drive
Range is still the main concern for electric trucks. New models are improving, but if your routes are long and remote, diesel still offers more flexibility. Diesel trucks can be refuelled almost anywhere in Canada, from big cities to small towns. Electric trucks work best for set routes with charging at the start and end of the day. For city deliveries or short regional trips, electric is already proving its worth. For cross-country hauls, diesel still holds the lead.
The Impact of Incentives and Rebates
In Canada, there are federal and provincial programs to help with the cost of electric trucks. These can make the higher purchase price easier to handle. These incentives can lower the cost by thousands. Diesel trucks do not have these same incentives. This means your total cost of ownership for electric trucks can drop faster than expected, especially if fuel and maintenance savings are added in.
Thinking About Resale and Long-Term Value
The market for used electric trucks is still young. This means resale values can be harder to predict. Diesel trucks have an established resale market, especially for models that have been well maintained. But as more companies switch to electric, demand for used electric trucks is likely to grow. This could mean better resale values in the future.
See the Right Truck for Your Business
Choosing between electric and diesel commercial trucks in Canada comes down to how and where you drive. Electric trucks can offer big savings on fuel and maintenance, especially for local or regional work. Diesel trucks are still best for long and unpredictable routes. The right choice is the one that fits your business and your roads. Visit Metro Freightliner in Strathroy, ON today to explore both options and see which will work best for you.