Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Electric Vehicle Trucks for Automotive Parts Transportation A Case Study of an Automotive Parts Manufacturing Company

Abstract

This research aimed to 1) compare the operating costs of 6-wheel electric trucks and diesel trucks used for transporting automotive parts, and 2) analyze the long-term cost-effectiveness and break-even point of electric trucks compared with diesel trucks. The study employed a case study approach, focusing on a logistics company operating within the Amata City Industrial Estate, Rayong Province, Thailand. Data were collected from 42 transportation routes over three years using purposive sampling. Actual operating cost data were analyzed, including monthly vehicle rental, energy costs, and other hidden expenses. Routes were classified into four groups according to usage characteristics, and comparisons between truck types were conducted using three key metrics: average cost per trip, break-even point (BEP), and cumulative monthly operating cost trends.

The results revealed that electric trucks had lower average costs per trip than diesel trucks on high-frequency routes with distances not exceeding 120 kilometers, achieving savings of 129–517 THB per trip (8–28%). For route groups 1–3, electric trucks reached break-even immediately from the start of operation. In contrast, route group 4, characterized by infrequent use, long distances, and a lack of charging infrastructure, showed higher costs for electric trucks (over 1,300 THB per trip) and no break-even within three years. The study recommends deploying EV trucks on high-utilization routes with charging infrastructure. Cost assessments should incorporate BEP and long-term trends to guide investment. Furthermore, leveraging government support or tax incentives, such as carbon credits, can enhance the long-term economic viability of electric coordination in Thailand.