The focus on electrifying transportation has extended beyond personal cars to encompass commercial vehicles, particularly heavy-duty vehicles (HDVs). HDVs, including trucks and buses, play a crucial role in global logistics and public transportation but are also significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. In the European Union, HDVs account for 25% of emissions from road transport and more than 6% of total EU greenhouse gas emissions. Globally, the situation is even more concerning, as HDVs are projected to contribute more emissions than light-duty vehicles by 2025.
The European heavy-duty vehicle (HDV) market experienced a significant shift towards zero-emission vehicles in 2024, despite an overall contraction in the market. This trend reflects the growing emphasis on sustainable transportation and the commercial sector's increasing viability of electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles.
According to the data from ICCT, the year 2024 saw a notable increase in zero-emission HDV sales, with over 14,000 units sold compared to 11,000 in the previous year. This growth is impressive, considering the overall HDV market contracted by 8%, with total sales dropping from 390,000 units in 2023 to 360,000 in 2024, as reported by ICCT. This contrast suggests that while the general market faced challenges, possibly due to economic factors or supply chain issues, the zero-emission segment continued to gain traction.
The European heavy-duty vehicle (HDV) market experienced a significant shift towards zero-emission vehicles in 2024 despite an overall contraction in the market. This trend reflects the growing emphasis on sustainable transportation and the commercial sector's increasing viability of electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles.
The global electric truck market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 22.9% from 2023 to 2032. By 2032, the market is expected to reach USD 31.2 billion, up from USD 8.1 billion in 2025.
Market segmentation shows robust growth across all categories: light-duty trucks (23.4% CAGR), medium-duty trucks (23.6% CAGR), and heavy-duty trucks (20.7% CAGR). The Asia-Pacific region maintains market leadership, with China as the primary contributor, while North America and Europe demonstrate substantial growth potential.
Among propulsion technologies, Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) command market dominance with a 22.2% CAGR, followed by Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) at 23.4% and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) at 24.7%. Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) are emerging at a 21.7% growth rate.
The delivery sector constitutes the largest application segment, with a 22.6% CAGR, driven by expanding e-commerce and last-mile logistics requirements.
Market expansion is primarily attributed to increasing logistics and e-commerce demand, implementing stringent emissions regulations, and technological advancements in battery systems. Despite progress, challenges persist in initial investment costs and charging infrastructure limitations.
The market outlook remains optimistic, with anticipated developments in megawatt charging systems and hydrogen fuel cell technology expected to accelerate adoption rates across global transportation networks.
The acceleration of electric HDVs is primarily hindered by the lack of mid-shift fast charging. According to the IEA STEPS projection, approximately 1.1 million zero-emission trucks and buses, including 130,000 tractor-trailers, are expected on the roads by 2030. These vehicles will rely on a mix of slow overnight charging, offering 50-150 kW, and ultra-fast charging exceeding 1 MW.
Currently, most HDVs use depot charging, with capacities ranging from AC 22 kW to DC 150 kW chargers. However, to match the operational efficiency of diesel trucks and minimize waiting times, faster charging solutions are necessary. Research shows that most DC fast charging stations offer 250-350 kW, but the demands of regional and long-haul trucking in the United States and Europe will require charging powers above 350 kW, potentially up to 1 MW. This need is driven by regulatory break requirements: the European Union mandates a 45-minute break every 4.5 hours, while the U.S. requires a 30-minute break after 8 hours. This context highlights the critical need for advanced charging infrastructure to support the widespread adoption of electric trucks.
ACEA, the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association, believes that some 40,000 to 50,000 high-capacity public charging points will be needed across Europe by 2030 to enable comprehensive electrification of road goods transport.
Responding to the urgent need for efficient and high-powered charging solutions for electric heavy-duty vehicles, the Megawatt Charging System (MCS) emerges as a game-changer in the industry. Designed to cater to the needs of large battery electric vehicles, the MCS offers an impressive charging rate of 3.75 megawatts (3,000 amps at 1,250 volts DC). Initiated by CharIN in 2018, this innovative system extends its utility beyond just trucks and buses to include marine and aeronautical applications, demonstrating its versatility in a range of high-power charging scenarios.
In parallel to MCS, the ChaoJi charging project, initiated by the CHAdeMO Association and the China Electricity Council, has developed its own ultra-high-power standard, known as CHAdeMO 3.0. ChaoJi is designed to charge electric vehicles at up to 900 kilowatts, showcasing a significant presence and influence in the Chinese market. While MCS is focused on a broad range of heavy-duty applications with a higher power output, ChaoJi emphasizes compatibility with existing Chinese and global charging standards, indicating a more region-specific approach.
The development of megawatt charging systems is supported by key global standards from SAE, IEC, and ISO, each playing a crucial role in ensuring safety, efficiency, and interoperability. SAE International is working on SAE J3271, a North American standard that defines the requirements for high-power DC fast charging for heavy-duty electric vehicles, covering electrical specifications, connector design, and safety protocols. This standard, expected to be finalized by 2025, will align with the Megawatt Charging System (MCS) and shape the charging landscape in the United States and Canada, with potential global influence.
At the international level, the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is developing IEC 63379 and IEC 61851-23-3, which will establish a unified technical framework for megawatt charging infrastructure worldwide. These standards focus on voltage, current, connector compatibility, and safety measures, ensuring harmonization across Europe, Asia, and beyond. By creating a consistent, scalable system, IEC aims to facilitate widespread adoption of MCS as the global standard once these regulations are finalized.
Meanwhile, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is responsible for the communication layer of megawatt charging. The ISO 15118-20 standard is already in use within CCS (Combined Charging System) and MCS, enabling Plug & Charge functionality for seamless authentication and payment. It also supports bidirectional charging (V2G), allowing electric vehicles to interact with the grid for improved energy management. This smart communication protocol ensures that megawatt charging is not just powerful but also secure, automated, and efficient.
Together, these standards provide the technical foundation for megawatt charging adoption. SAE J3271 ensures North American consistency, IEC 63379 and IEC 61851-23-3 create a global charging infrastructure framework, and ISO 15118-20 enables intelligent charging and grid integration. With their implementation, electric heavy-duty vehicles will soon be able to recharge in minutes, making zero-emission freight and public transport more viable than ever.
| Standard | Regions Used | Organisation Responsible | Maximum Output | Current Adoption |
| Megawatt Charging System (MCS) | Global (USA, EU, Asia, pilot projects) | CharIN (Charging Interface Initiative) | 3,000 A, 1,250 V (up to 3.75 MW) | Pilot projects in USA, EU; expected commercial use by 2025 |
| SAE J3271 | North America (USA, Canada) | SAE International | 1,250 V, 3,000 A (aligned with MCS) | Under development, finalization expected in 2025 |
| IEC 63379 / IEC 61851-23-3 | Europe, Asia (Global IEC standard) | International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) | 1,250 V, 3,000 A (aligned with MCS) | In development, expected to be finalized by 2025 |
| ISO 15118-20 | Global (used for communication in MCS) | ISO/IEC | Protocol-based, not power specific | Already in use in CCS/MCS systems for communication |
| ChaoJi (CHAdeMO 3.0) | China, Japan (possible alternative for MCS) | CHAdeMO Association (Japan), China Electricity Council (China) | 600 A, 1,500 V (up to 900 kW) | Limited to China and Japan; alternative to MCS in Asia |
The EU’s Charging Infrastructure Masterplan highlights the growing need for such infrastructure. By 2030, it is estimated that trucks will require 279,000 charging points, with 84% of these in fleet hubs. The remaining will be fast-charging points along highways and public overnight charging points. For buses, about 56,000 charging points will be needed, with the majority again in fleet hubs. The MCS, with its high average charging speeds of 700 to 800 kW for trucks and buses, is anticipated to become the industry standard for fast public charging for commercial vehicles (CVs) by 2025. This shift could potentially reduce the number of public charging stations by around 70%, as MCS chargers would offer faster charging and higher utilization rates.
As of March 2025, the rollout of megawatt charging stations is accelerating, enabling the electrification of heavy-duty trucking. Several large-scale projects are underway across North America and Europe, driven by industry leaders and government-backed initiatives.
WattEV has established the first public Megawatt Charging System (MCS) stations in the U.S., including its 1.2 MW chargers in Bakersfield, California. The company continues expanding its network, with charging hubs in Long Beach, Gardena, and San Bernardino forming a crucial electrified freight corridor. Meanwhile, One Energy Enterprises has deployed the largest megawatt-scale charging hub in the U.S., a 30 MW facility in Ohio capable of charging up to 90 trucks simultaneously.
The U.S. Department of Energy’s SuperTruck Charge program, launched in 2024, has allocated $68 million for three high-power charging hubs along key freight corridors. Projects in Arizona, California, and Utah aim to establish multi-megawatt charging infrastructure by 2026, paving the way for scalable solutions nationwide.
In Europe, the HoLa Project in Germany has successfully deployed 1+ MW MCS chargers at key logistics locations along the A2 autobahn. Similarly, the Milence joint venture, backed by Daimler Truck, Volvo, and TRATON, has begun scaling its network of 1,700 public truck charging stations across Europe, with major sites now operational in the Netherlands and Belgium. Recent testing of Milence’s MCS chargers has achieved 1.1 MW charging capacity, reducing heavy truck recharge times to just 30 minutes.
Switzerland and the UK have also joined the megawatt charging race. Designwerk has implemented a 2 MWh battery-buffered charger to minimize grid strain, while Vital EV is rolling out Britain’s first 1.2 MW liquid-cooled MCS stations. These projects are setting the stage for widespread adoption of megawatt charging across Europe.
Charging hardware manufacturers such as ABB and ChargePoint continue to refine their MCS-compatible chargers, with systems now capable of delivering up to 3 MW of power. Truck manufacturers, including Daimler, Volvo, and Tesla, are aligning their vehicle development with this infrastructure, ensuring new electric freight trucks can take full advantage of these ultra-fast chargers.
With megawatt charging stations now operational and scaling rapidly, the foundation for zero-emission long-haul trucking is solidifying. The next two years will be critical in expanding infrastructure and ensuring seamless, high-power charging solutions to support the global transition to electric freight transport.
While megawatt charging presents significant advancements for battery electric heavy-duty vehicles (BEVs), its impact on hydrogen fuel cell trucks (FCEVs) market is a growing debate. MCS's capacity to potentially reduce charging times for BEVs to as low as 12 to 15 minutes is revolutionizing the field, offering a viable alternative to the traditionally favored hydrogen trucks for their long-range capabilities and fast refueling times.
In terms of range and efficiency, while FCEVs can offer up to 1000 km with liquid hydrogen storage and a longer fuel cell lifespan of up to 30,000 hours, BEVs are rapidly closing this gap with technological advancements. The cost comparison between these two types of vehicles also plays a crucial role, with battery electric trucks priced between USD 188,000 to USD 250,000 and fuel-cell trucks ranging from USD 240,000 to USD 288,000. The MCS, exceeding the current maximum capacity of 500 kilowatts by the Combined Charging System (CCS), is particularly crucial for long-haul electric trucks that require a charging power of 550 to 1,000 kilowatts within a legally mandated 45-minute break.
Experts have suggested that the advancements in BEV technology might diminish the need for hydrogen trucks. FCEVs, despite their benefits, face challenges such as lower efficiency and higher operational costs per mile compared to BEVs. The choice between BEVs and FCEVs will likely hinge on the specific requirements of the trucking industry and the evolving capabilities of these technologies, especially as advancements in battery technology continue to progress.
The heavy-duty vehicle (HDV) charging market is experiencing a remarkable transformation, driven by the global push towards sustainable transportation. According to research by Market Research Future the market is valued at USD 14.5 billion in 2025, poised for explosive growth. Industry analysts project a compound annual growth rate of 23.3% from 2023 to 2032, potentially catapulting the market to USD 65.3 billion by 2032. This surge reflects the increasing demand for high-power charging solutions to support the electrification of trucks and buses worldwide.
When we examine the market's segmentation, a nuanced picture emerges. DC chargers are projected to reach USD 5.4 billion in 2025, with projections suggesting they could reach USD 23.1 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 22.2%. These chargers are crucial for fast and ultra-fast charging applications and essential for minimizing downtime in commercial operations. However, AC chargers are growing slightly faster at a CAGR of 23.9%. Their market size is expected to surge from USD 9 billion in 2025 to an impressive USD 42.2 billion by 2032, highlighting their importance in depot-based overnight charging scenarios.
The charging method segmentation reveals an interesting dynamic. Fast charging, vital for reducing downtime during long-haul operations, is growing at a CAGR of 23.8%. This segment is projected to expand from USD 9.5 billion in 2025 to a substantial USD 44.4 billion by 2032. Slow charging, while growing at a slightly slower pace of 22.3%, remains relevant for depot-based overnight charging and is expected to reach USD 21 billion by 2032.
When we look at charging station types, depot charging emerges as the largest segment, accounting for over two-thirds of the market. It's expected to grow at a CAGR of 22.6%, potentially reaching USD 42.6 billion by 2032 from USD 9.8 billion in 2025. However, enroute charging stations are growing even faster at a CAGR of 24.8%, underscoring their critical role in supporting long-haul routes. This segment is set to expand from USD 4.6 billion in 2025 to USD 22.7 billion by 2032.
Regionally, Asia-Pacific leads the charge, commanding over 50% of the global HDV charging market. China stands out as the powerhouse in this region, with its market projected to reach USD 9 billion in 2025 and potentially growing to USD 37.3 billion by 2032 at a CAGR of 21.8%. The country's focus on high utilization rates for long-haul electric trucks has led to a dominance of fast-charging solutions.
Europe is not far behind, rapidly expanding its HDV charging infrastructure. The region's market size is projected to be approximately USD 2.6 billion in 2025 and is forecasted to grow at a CAGR of 25.7%, potentially reaching USD 13 billion by 2032. Countries like Germany and the Netherlands are spearheading investments in enroute fast-charging networks, setting the stage for a robust electric HDV ecosystem.
North America is witnessing significant growth, fueled by government initiatives such as the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program. The U.S. HDV charging market is expected to reach USD 898.8 million in 2025, growing at an impressive CAGR of 28.7%, potentially reaching USD 5.3 billion by 2032. While depot chargers currently dominate the landscape, enroute charging stations are growing faster, with a CAGR of 29.7%, reflecting the increasing focus on long-distance electric trucking.
Emerging markets in South America and the Middle East & Africa are also joining the electrification trend. South America's HDV charging market is projected to reach USD 74 million in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of approximately 24.3%, reaching USD 353.6 million by 2032. The Middle East & Africa region is focusing on developing public fast-charging networks for urban freight corridors, signaling a global shift towards electric HDVs.
This market growth is underpinned by several key drivers. Government policies worldwide are introducing stringent emissions regulations and funding programs to support zero-emission HDVs. Technological advancements, particularly the development of the Megawatt Charging System (MCS) capable of delivering up to 3.75 MW power, are revolutionizing long-haul electric truck operations. Moreover, the rising adoption of electric vehicles, with approximately 1.1 million zero-emission HDVs expected on roads globally by 2030, is further fueling demand for charging infrastructure.
However, the road to widespread HDV charging adoption is not without challenges. High upfront costs associated with deploying ultra-fast chargers and upgrading grid infrastructure remain significant hurdles. Geographic disparities in public charger availability, particularly along long-haul routes, and fragmentation in global charging standards also pose challenges to seamless integration.
Looking ahead, the HDV charging market is poised for exponential growth as electrification accelerates across logistics and transportation sectors. By 2025, we can expect to see commercial rollouts of MCS-enabled chargers addressing range limitations for long-haul electric trucks. By 2030, Europe alone will require over 40,000 high-capacity public charging points to meet demand. As this market evolves, strategic partnerships between automakers, energy providers, and governments will be crucial in overcoming challenges and ensuring the seamless integration of HDV charging infrastructure globally, paving the way for a more sustainable future in heavy-duty transportation.
Sources:
Global - Electric Truck and Heavy Duty Charging Market Research Report Forecast to 2032 - Statzon / Market Research Future
Statzon
Race to Zero: European Heavy-Duty Vehicle Market Development Quarterly (January–December 2024) - ICCT
ICCT report Charging Solutions for Batter Electric Truck, world-energy
IEA Global EV Outlook 2023, Milence
Megawatt Charging System (MCS) - CharIN, Communication Protocol for MCS - ISO/IEC 15118-20
Technical Standards for Megawatt Charging - IEC, J3271 Megawatt Charging Standard - SAE International
chargedevs
ACEA European EV Charging Infrastructure Masterplan
ACEA
WattEV opens US’ first megawatt charge station with 1.2MW speeds and solar - Electrek
WattEV opens US’s largest electric truck charge depot at nation’s largest port - Electrek
One Energy launches 30 MW “Megawatt Hub” in Ohio - EVInfo
U.S. DOE funds SuperTruck Charge program with $68M investment - U.S. Department of Energy
HoLa Project deploys 1+ MW MCS chargers on A2 highway - TechXplore
Milence expands megawatt truck charging network across Europe - Milence
Designwerk introduces battery-buffered megawatt charger in Switzerland - Bern University of Applied Sciences
ABB tests 1.5 MW MCS charger with Scania, future 3 MW capabilities - ABB
ChargePoint unveils new 3 MW-capable megawatt charging system - ChargePoint