Electric heavy-duty trucks offer significant health and environmental benefits, particularly for cities and drivers, due to their reduced emissions and noise levels compared to traditional diesel or petrol-powered trucks. Some of these may not be immediate obvious:

Reduction in Air Pollution
One of the biggest arguments against older Diesel-powered trucks is the fact that they are a major source of air pollutants, especially particulate matter (PM), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These pollutants contribute to:

Respiratory diseases due to long-term exposure to diesel exhaust. Such extended exposure to harmful emmissions can lead to asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory conditions. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) from diesel engines is particularly harmful, as it penetrates deep into the lungs. Exposure to NOx and PM can exacerbate heart conditions and increase the risk of heart attacks. Diesel exhaust has been classified as a carcinogen by the World Health Organization (WHO), increasing the risk of lung cancer.

By eliminating tailpipe emissions, electric vehicles drastically reduce these harmful pollutants where they are used. For urban areas, this means cleaner air, which can lead to improved public health outcomes, particularly in cities with high levels of traffic congestion.

Reduced Noise Pollution
ICE-powered trucks are not only air polluters but also major sources of noise pollution, especially in densely populated urban areas. Prolonged exposure to high noise levels can lead to hearing impairment or loss: Drivers of diesel trucks and those living near highways or heavily trafficked areas are at risk of hearing damage over time.

Stress and sleep disturbances are other impacts on our health seldom discussed: constant noise can cause chronic stress, anxiety, and disrupt sleep patterns, which in turn can lead to other health issues like hypertension and weakened immune systems. Electric trucks are significantly quieter than diesel trucks, especially at lower speeds. This reduction in noise pollution creates a more comfortable driving environment for drivers and contributes to quieter, more peaceful urban areas. This in combination with modern tyres, designed to run quiet, offer the benefit of healthier transportation.

One issue arising from the noise reduction in electric trucks is that pedestrians and other road users may not be aware of the heavy vehicles as they are no longer audible from afar. Modern electric trucks are therefore featuring safety systems that detect and protect others.

Improved Driver Health
Diesel truck drivers are often exposed to higher levels of pollutants because they spend long hours in or near the exhaust of their vehicles. The cabin environment can become saturated with diesel fumes, especially if ventilation is poor. This can lead to chronic respiratory issues as drivers are exposed to diesel particulate matter for extended periods. Continuous exposure to diesel pollutants can contribute to chronic health problems like cardiovascular diseases and lung conditions.

Noise, vibration, and pollutants can exacerbate driver fatigue, increasing the risk of accidents. ng-term health risks. In particular, vibrations from ICE-engines are linked to harm to joints in arms and shoulders. As electric motors do not vibrate, the impact on the human body is eliminated.

With electric trucks, drivers are no longer exposed to the same level of harmful pollutants. The quieter operation and smoother ride (due to fewer vibrations) also improve the overall comfort and health of drivers, reducing fatigue and stress levels.

Reduction in Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Diesel trucks emit large quantities of carbon dioxide (CO2), a major greenhouse gas contributing to climate change. Electric trucks, when powered by clean or renewable energy sources, can have a much lower carbon footprint. This shift reduces the environmental impact of heavy-duty trucking, which in turn contributes to healthier ecosystems and human populations by mitigating the adverse effects of climate change, such as heat waves and air quality degradation.

Lower Maintenance and Reduced Exposure to Chemicals
Diesel engines require more frequent maintenance, which often exposes drivers and mechanics to chemicals like oils, greases, and diesel fuel. **Electric trucks**, with fewer moving parts, tend to require less maintenance and are cleaner to operate, reducing exposure to harmful chemicals and the risk of accidents related to spills or leaks.

The use of electric trucks can health risks, but only if powered by sustainable energy sources. If the electricity used comes from fossil fuels, the emissions are merely shifted from the truck to power plants, often located in different areas. This creates the illusion of "clean" transport while maintaining high pollution levels elsewhere. For true healthier transportation solutions, energy must come from renewable sources like wind, solar, or hydropower. Otherwise, the environmental burden is transferred, rather than reduced, perpetuating the carbon problem.

Summary: Health Benefits
Cleaner air: Reduced particulate matter and NOx emissions improve respiratory health, particularly in urban areas.

Less noise pollution: Electric trucks create a quieter environment, benefiting both drivers and city residents.

Improved driver comfort and health: Less exposure to diesel exhaust and noise leads to better working conditions, reduced stress, and fewer chronic health problems.

Positive environmental impact: Lower greenhouse gas emissions contribute to mitigating climate change, which has long-term health benefits for everyone.

The transition to electric heavy-duty trucks holds the potential to significantly improve public health, especially in cities where pollution and noise are major concerns, while offering a safer, healthier work environment for drivers.

Electrifying Malaysia’s Transportation
Asian Trucker is organising the Asian Trucker Forum, an upcoming conference dedicated to the evolving landscape of electric trucks and buses. As a leader in the industry, your company plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of sustainable transportation. We would like to invite you to become a sponsor for this significant event.

Event Overview:

• Date: 16 May 2025
• Venue: Setia City Convention Centre
• Theme: Pioneering the Future of Transportation

This conference will bring together industry experts, policymakers, and key stakeholders to address the challenges and opportunities presented by the adoption of electric vehicles in the commercial sector. It will be an excellent platform for companies like yours to showcase innovations, share insights, and explore real-world use cases that can serve as valuable learning experiences for others in the industry.