Construction Companies Are Turning to EVs

Construction Companies Are Turning to EVs

The Vehicles in the Dirt Are Getting Less Dirty

The discussion about electric vehicles tends to center on passenger cars, trucks, buses and trains. Outside the public eye, construction companies are quietly switching to EVs to plow through debris and carry materials around job sites. Here’s why electric equipment is an obvious choice for forward-thinking brands.

A Quieter, Smoother Ride

Traditional construction equipment has an internal combustion engine (ICE)–usally diesel powered–that makes the vehicle vibrate and produce loud noises. Job sites can be so loud that construction workers must wear earplugs, reducing their ability to communicate effectively. EVs do not contribute to noise pollution.

Additionally, exposure to vibrating machinery—such as when operating loaders, excavators and dozers—can cause back pain, sciatica, musculoskeletal disorders and spinal issues. In the construction and transportation sector, 45% of workers are exposed to vibration at least one-quarter of the time. Electric vehicles offer a smooth ride that protects worker health.

Greater Efficiency

Idling accounts for more than 6 billion gallons of lost diesel and gasoline annually, costing construction companies over $11 billion.

EVs do not idle in the traditional sense. Builders can turn an electric dump truck on or off at any time without starting it, warming it up or leaving it running while performing another task. These vehicles slash fuel costs while still serving as well as diesel equipment.

Several construction companies have already added EVs to their equipment lineup. Case premiered its 580 EV electric backhoe at the CONEXPO-CON/AGG in 2020. In 2021, Komatsu unveiled an electric micro excavator and John Deere showcased an electric backhoe at the 2021 Utility Expo. Volvo Construction Equipment currently has five electric excavators and wheel loaders of various sizes for sales plus an asphalt compacter. Although many brands promote their vehicles’ low environmental impact, the biggest benefit for many customers will be the lower operating cost.

No Emissions

Diesel emissions are carcinogenic. In the European Union, an estimated 3.41% of workers—341 out of every 10,000—could develop lung cancer due to occupational diesel exhaust exposure. That is an excessively high chance of contracting a preventable disease.

Electric equipment produces no emissions, making it safe for workers to use long term. It also has a better environmental profile and helps construction companies comply with pollution regulations.

Building a Better Construction Industry

Construction is a dangerous profession. Builders and contractors currently deal with excessive noise, vibrations and toxic fumes from vehicles on the job site, putting them at risk for long-term health problems. Additionally, diesel-powered equipment is inefficient and harms the environment.

It’s no wonder so many construction companies are switching to EVs. They are safer, have lower operating costs and keep workers safe—plus, they do the job just as well as traditional machinery. In time, EVs will become the dominant type of vehicle in the industry.