Improve Drivers Retention By Going Electric: Why Drivers Love Electric Trucks?

According to the IRU, over 233,000 truck drivers are currently missing across the EU, Norway and the UK, a number that could climb over 745,000 by 2028. What if the best tool to address this growing labor crisis was already here – going electric. 

Driver satisfaction continues to be overlooked as one of the reasons to adopt electric trucks. Granted there are many other factors that go into transitioning, but as the industry shifts, more drivers are reporting that EVs offer a better, more enjoyable experience according to The Times. 

Outdated Equipment, Outdated Expectations

The trucking industry’s driver shortage isn’t just about vacancies—it's about the underlying dissatisfaction causing drivers to leave.EV resources note that traditional diesel vehicles come with a host of physical and emotional stressors:

• Constant noise and engine vibration take a toll on drivers during long hauls, leaving them mentally drained and physically sore after shifts.

• Rough shifting in multi-gear transmissions adds daily strain. Even with newer diesel models, the stop-and-go experience can be jarring.

• Unpredictable mechanical issues mean drivers are frequently stuck roadside or in the shop—leading to missed deadlines and frustration with equipment they don’t trust.

• Outdated cabins often lack modern creature comforts, making hours on the road feel even longer.

Long hours, outdated vehicles, poor working conditions, and unpredictable schedules have made the profession less appealing, especially to younger generations. Each time a driver leaves, it’s costly, says FarEye, a tech and  operations company. Showing that companies face more than just a gap in coverage, there’s training time, increased accident risk from inexperienced hires, insurance spikes, and loss of productivity. Diesel trucks aren’t just polluting the air, they’re driving people out of the industry. 

Comfort, Control, and Quiet: The EV Advantage

Electrifying your fleet doesn’t just reduce emissions, it helps retain the people who move your business. In a series of real-world electric truck case studies from NACFE, drivers shared their honest experiences. Many were skeptical at first, but that changed after just a few days behind the wheel:

• “I hope I never have to drive a diesel truck again in my life.” – Driver at US Foods

• “After a couple of days driving the Tesla Semi, I absolutely loved battery-electric trucks.”, despite being hesitant about new technology– PepsiCo driver

• “If you had asked me five years ago if I’d be driving an electric truck, I’d have said you’re crazy.” – UPS driver

Electric trucks are proving not just good for operations but essential to keeping drivers on the road, as they offer essential qualities that can improve experience and performance, including: 

• Smoother rides: No more 13-speed transmissions to manage, making it an easier and more enjoyable journey for drivers. 

• More quiet cabins: Less noise means lower fatigue and better focus—especially in urban or high-stress environments. Which the public could appreciate as well. 

• Improved acceleration and control: EVs provide better response and a lower center of gravity, which reduces rollover risk.

• Resonating with younger drivers: Along with the environmental impact, research shows that EVs are very popular amongst younger generations, which could improve drivers retention. 

A tool for Retention and Relief

This shift goes beyond driver satisfaction; it creates operational ease. When drivers enjoy the vehicles they operate, they tend to stay longer, reducing turnover and minimizing the need for retraining. As they offer lower maintenance and quieter operations, especially in urban areas, becoming a catalyst for both efficiency and satisfaction. 

EVs also support more predictable schedules, with integrated fleet management tools like route optimization, downtime planning, and simplified maintenance tracking. These tools allow managers to set realistic delivery windows, reduce overtime, and support better work like balance, which is something young drivers value. 

Additionally drivers now charge during mandated breaks, allowing them to stay compliant while keeping routes on schedule. With more high-speed chargers and tools rapidly expanding across Europe, downtime continues to shrink. By electrifying fleets, companies have a chance to solve various problems at once: improving sustainability, operations and giving drivers a reason to stay behind the wheel. And when drivers stay, so does your business.

Operational Support for A Seamless and Profitable Electrification

Despite the benefits, many companies remain hesitant to electrify due to operational uncertainty. EVE helps businesses plan smarter, matching routes to EV range, optimizing charge breaks, and choosing the right vehicles for your business goals. We take the guesswork out of electrification so fleet managers can focus on what matters most: safe, efficient, and satisfied drivers. Whether it’s selecting the right vehicle, strategizing deployments, or maximizing driver performance, EVE helps with certainty and confidence for your EV adoption. 

Electric trucks don’t just represent the future of mobility, they offer a better experience today. Learn more about how EVE can help you stay ahead and transition with confidence.