Frequently Asked Questions About EV's

We have put together a list of frequently asked questions to help our customers learn more about the International eMV and the transition to an electric fleet.

Determining if an electric truck is right for your fleet involves several key considerations:
1. Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)

   - Initial Purchase Price: Electric trucks generally have a higher upfront cost compared to diesel or gasoline trucks.

   - Operating Costs: Consider fuel savings, as electricity is often cheaper than diesel. Also, factor in lower maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts in electric vehicles (EVs).

   - Incentives and Rebates: Learn about the government incentives, tax credits, and grants that can offset the initial purchase price.

2. Range and Charging Infrastructure

   - Range Requirements:  Evaluate the daily driving range of your routes. Ensure the electric truck's range meets or exceeds your needs.

   - Charging Infrastructure: Assess the availability of charging stations, both on your premises and en route. Consider the time required for charging and the impact on your operations.

3. Operational Needs

   - Payload and Performance: Ensure the electric truck can handle the weight and performance requirements of your typical loads.

   - Climate Impact: Understand how weather conditions (extreme cold or heat) might affect the battery performance and range.

Learn more about the total cost of ownership with Navistar's TCO calculator: https://www.navistar.com/our-path-forward/zero-emissions/operating-cost-calculator

The shift towards zero-emissions vehicles plays a crucial role in mitigating the environmental impacts of fossil fuel consumption, enhancing air and water quality, and combating climate change. Battery electric trucks and buses, depending on their design, can achieve up to 3.5 times the energy efficiency of diesel and natural gas vehicles at typical operating speeds (Source: California Air Resources Board). Additionally, these vehicles have fewer components that require replacement, leading to significantly lower maintenance needs.
According to the North American Council for Freight Efficiency (NACFE), the lead times for installing charging infrastructure typically range from six months to one year. Our dedicated Zero Emissions team, along with our charging partners, is committed to closely collaborating with each customer to expedite the installation process as much as possible. We prioritize meeting your specific business needs and ensuring that the transition to zero-emissions technology is smooth and efficient. This approach allows us to tailor the setup to your operational requirements, ensuring that the installation not only meets the highest standards but also aligns perfectly with your business objectives.
The International eMV electric truck operates using a fully electric powertrain, which consists of a battery pack, one or more electric motors, and a sophisticated control system. Here’s a breakdown of how it works and the advantages it offers:

How It Works
1. Battery Pack: The eMV is equipped with a large-capacity lithium-ion battery pack that stores electrical energy to power the vehicle. The size and capacity of the battery determine the truck's range.

2. Electric Motor: The electrical energy from the battery is converted into mechanical energy by the electric motor(s), which drive the truck’s wheels. This process is more efficient than the combustion process in traditional internal combustion engines.

3. Regenerative Braking:  The eMV utilizes regenerative braking technology, which captures kinetic energy during braking and converts it back into electrical energy, recharging the battery slightly during operation. This helps to extend the range.

4. Control System: An advanced control system manages the power flow between the battery, motor, and other components to optimize performance and efficiency.

Advantages of the International eMV Electric Truck
1. Reduced Emissions:  As a zero-emission vehicle, the eMV significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants compared to diesel trucks. This is crucial in urban environments and helps businesses meet stringent environmental regulations.

2. Lower Operating Costs:  Electric trucks like the eMV typically have lower operating costs. Electricity is generally cheaper than diesel fuel, and electric vehicles have fewer moving parts, leading to lower maintenance costs.

3. Noise Reduction: Electric motors operate much more quietly than diesel engines, which reduces noise pollution. This is particularly beneficial in urban areas and for night-time deliveries.

4. Performance: Electric trucks provide smooth and immediate torque delivery, which can improve acceleration and make the vehicle easier to drive, especially in stop-and-go urban traffic.

5. Incentives and Subsidies:  Owners of electric trucks often qualify for various government incentives, including tax credits, rebates, and grants, which can help offset the higher upfront costs associated with EVs.

6. Corporate Responsibility:  By integrating vehicles like the eMV into their fleet, companies can demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, enhancing their public image and appealing to environmentally conscious customers.

The International eMV electric truck combines the environmental benefits of electric propulsion with the performance and reliability expected in commercial trucking, making it a compelling choice for businesses looking to modernize their fleets and reduce their environmental impact.

Important safety features include:

  • Electric “handshake” high-voltage interlock

  • Charging only possible when the cable is fully connected

  • Protection from high voltage during charging, maintenance or accidents with the use of high voltage disconnect switches

  • Safe in all weather conditions

  • Vehicle is immobile while charging: Impossible to drive off while connected

One key factor behind the extended range of today's electric trucks and buses is the use of regenerative braking technology. This system conserves energy that would otherwise be lost through conventional braking. Instead of relying solely on the friction from brake rotors, regenerative braking allows electric trucks and buses to slow down using the electric motor, which simultaneously recharges the battery during moderate braking.

International® and IC Bus® have advanced this technology by offering three levels of driver-selectable regenerative braking to enhance energy recovery and control:

  • Level 1: Mimics the stopping power of a traditional automatic transmission, providing a familiar driving experience for operators.
  • Level 2: Offers a moderate level of regenerative braking, balancing efficient energy recovery with comfortable deceleration.
  • Level 3: Facilitates one-pedal driving, where the vehicle can be slowed to just a few miles per hour using solely regenerative braking. The driver only needs to use the service brake to bring the vehicle to a complete stop.

This tiered approach allows drivers to choose the level of regenerative braking that best suits their driving style and road conditions, optimizing both the vehicle's range and the driving experience.

The lifespan of an electric truck battery can vary widely based on several factors such as battery technology, usage patterns, and maintenance practices. Here's a general breakdown:

  1. Battery Technology: Most electric trucks use lithium-ion batteries, which typically offer a service life ranging from 8 to 15 years before their capacity diminishes to around 70-80% of their original capacity.

  2. Usage Patterns: The battery's lifespan is influenced by how the truck is used. Frequent deep discharges, high-intensity usage, and exposure to extreme conditions can reduce the battery's lifespan.

  3. Climate: Batteries tend to degrade faster under extreme temperatures. Prolonged exposure to very hot or cold conditions can adversely affect battery health.

  4. Charging Habits: How often and how the battery is charged also impacts its longevity. Frequent use of fast charging can accelerate battery degradation compared to regular or moderate-speed charging.

  5. Maintenance: Regular maintenance and monitoring can help maximize battery life. This includes maintaining proper charging levels, avoiding extreme depletion, and keeping the battery at a moderate temperature whenever possible.
    For additional peace of mind, please contact one our EV specialist today to learn more about International electric vehicles and extended battery warranties.

The estimated range of the International eMV electric truck varies depending on the specific model and battery configuration. Generally, the eMV is designed to cater to a variety of delivery and utility applications with its versatile configurations.

As of the latest information, the International eMV can offer a range of up to approximately 135 to 230 miles on a single charge, depending on factors such as battery size, vehicle load, and driving conditions. This range is typically adequate for many urban and regional delivery routes, providing a practical solution for businesses looking to transition to electric vehicles while maintaining efficient daily operations.

For the most accurate and up-to-date range estimates specific to particular models or configurations, it's best to consult directly with the staff at Westrux.
Yes, all International Dealers are required to become EV Certified to work on high voltage. This certification requires techs to attend in-person, hands on training.  

Frequently Asked Questions About Charging

Any charger with a minimum 600 volts will work. That includes:
  • Network-capable chargers
  • Level 2 AC (19.2 kW) - 1772 SAE standard connection
    • Minimum for overnight charging (not recommended)
  • DC charging station (30 kW) - Combination CCS1 adapter port
    • More efficient than AC, recommended minimum
  • DC fast-charge station (up to 125 kW) - Combination CCS1 adapter port
    • More efficient than AC, fastest option
  • DC public fast-charging (up to 125 kW)

This will vary depending on the type of charger and external environment. Below is estimated charge times with chargers. Our products have a charging speed of 125kW. All estimates below are based on room temperature for the 210 kWh. 

  • 19.2 kW AC EVSE = 12 hours 
  • 30 kW DC charger = 7.5 hours 
  • 60 kW DC charger = 4 hours 
  • 120 kW DC charger = 2 hours 
  • Above 120 kW DC charger = 2 hours 
Yes, the vehicles have a max charging rate of 125kW