Electric Trucks Give Hiring Edge: Younger Drivers Prefer Them

Electric trucks are helping fleets solve the driver shortage. Young drivers now specifically ask about EVs and hydrogen trucks in interviews, according to Benore Logistics.

News many did NOT expect 🚛⚡

Electric trucks don't just save fuel — they also help hire drivers.

Yes, you read that right. Fleets operating electric trucks report competitive advantage in recruiting, especially with young drivers.

The Report: Benore Logistics

Benore Logistics, a fleet operating both diesel and electric (Freightliner eCascadia), revealed in an interview with Electrek that:

"Candidates now specifically ask us if we have electric or hydrogen trucks. It's an important factor in their decision to work with us."

Why Do Drivers Prefer Electrics?

According to Benore and other carriers who have made the switch:

1. 🔇 Less Noise = Less Fatigue

• Electric trucks are incredibly quiet
• No constant diesel engine vibration
• Drivers report less fatigue at end of day
• Better sleep quality during breaks (if sleeping in truck)

2. 🚀 Smooth and Powerful Acceleration

• Instant torque from electric motors
• No gear shifts — just accelerate
• Climbing ramps is easier
• More comfortable handling in city traffic

3. 🧼 Cleaner Cabin

• No soot or diesel smoke
• No fuel smell
• More "professional" and modern environment

4. 🌍 "Green Pride" Factor

• Many young drivers want to contribute to sustainability
• Being able to say "I drive an electric truck" is a plus
• Attracts Gen Z and millennials who prioritize the environment

5. 💻 Modern Technology

• Electrics have high-tech cabins with digital displays
• Advanced connectivity (WiFi, integrated apps)
• Driver assistance systems (ADAS)
• Feels like driving a Tesla vs. a 1990 car

Hard Data: The Driver Shortage

This recruiting benefit is not trivial — the trucking industry has a talent crisis:

• 80,000+ drivers short according to ATA (American Trucking Associations)
• Average driver age: 48 years (and rising)
• Mass retirements in the next 10 years
• 160,000 drivers will be short by 2030 (ATA projection)

Anything that helps attract and retain talent is pure gold.

More Than Just Electrics

It's not just about electrics — it's about offering modern options and technology.

Hydrogen Also Attracts

Nikola, hydrogen truck manufacturer, reports that its customers also see recruiting benefits:

• Drivers curious about the technology
• Driving experience similar to electrics (smooth, quiet)
• "Innovation" factor attracts tech-savvy talent

Modern Diesel Also Helps

Even in diesel, fleets that invest in:

• New trucks (vs. 10+ year old used)
• Comfortable cabs with spacious sleepers
• Advanced technology (modern ELD, cameras, lane assist)
• APUs for comfort during breaks

...report higher retention rates than fleets with old, basic equipment.

The Cost of Not Modernizing

Fleets operating old, worn-out trucks are at a disadvantage:

• Lower talent attraction — good drivers choose other companies
• Higher turnover — drivers leave for companies with better equipment
• Higher recruiting cost — you have to spend more on bonuses to attract people

Should You Buy EVs Just for Recruiting?

No. But it's an additional benefit worth considering.

When Buying EV Makes Sense:

• Predictable regional routes: 300-500 miles with return to base
• You have your own depot: To install chargers
• Urban operations: Last-mile deliveries, drayage
• Tax incentives available: Federal/state credits
• Positive ROI in 3-5 years: With fuel and maintenance savings

When It Doesn't Make Sense (Yet):

• Long-haul OTR 1,000+ miles: Insufficient range
• No fixed depot: Depend on public network (still incomplete)
• Extreme weather: Batteries lose efficiency in cold
• Negative ROI: If your routes don't generate enough savings

Alternatives to Attract Talent

If you're not ready for electrics, there are other ways to modernize:

1. Invest in New or Nearly-New Equipment

• 2024-2026 trucks with modern technology
• Comfortable, clean cabins
• ADAS systems (lane assist, automatic emergency braking)

2. Add APUs

A Go Green APU not only saves $500-800/month in diesel — it also improves driver experience:

• AC/heat without engine idling
• Quiet cabin during breaks
• Less vibration and noise

3. Impeccable Maintenance

Nothing scares away a driver more than a constantly failing truck. At The Truck Savers™:

• FREE road simulator inspection — detects problems before they fail
• Precision alignment — so the truck handles well
• Rigorous preventive maintenance — engine, brakes, suspension

A reliable, well-maintained truck = happy driver = better retention.

4. Culture and Benefits

• Competitive and on-time pay
• Respect and clear communication
• Predictable home time
• Decent health insurance

The Future of Trucking Recruitment

With the driver shortage worsening, fleets will have to compete harder for talent.

Electric trucks are just one more tool in the arsenal. But it's a powerful tool — especially for attracting the new generation of drivers.

Fleets that adapt quickly and offer modern experience will have an advantage. Those that stay with old, worn-out equipment will suffer.

Conclusion

Electric trucks don't just save money — they also help solve industry problem #1: lack of drivers.

If you're considering making the switch, now you have one more argument to convince your CFO. 😉

Sources: Electrek, Benore Logistics, ATA, Nikola Motors