Electric trucks purchased in 2026 are already cheaper to own and operate than diesel models in six major EU markets, according to an analysis by Brussels-based environmental advocacy group Transport & Environment. The six markets—the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, France and Belgium—account for 46% of new heavy-truck registrations in the European Union. Over five years, electric models could save operators up to €100,000 in the Netherlands, €85,000 in Germany and €69,000 in Denmark, with the initial price premium recouped in about two years. T&E attributed the stronger economics partly to higher diesel prices following this year’s Iran-linked oil price spike, while noting that high purchase prices and uneven charging infrastructure have slowed Europe’s transition. The report examined total cost of ownership, the full expense of buying and running a vehicle, in nine EU countries. It also estimated that a Chinese-built electric truck costs about €210,000, compared with €265,000 for a European equivalent, giving German operators an additional €34,000 in five-year savings. European truckmakers including Daimler Truck, Volvo Group and Traton’s Scania have been preparing for lower-cost Chinese competition, with some Chinese electric trucks expected to be priced about 30% below comparable European models.