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Electric Trucks Displace Diesel in Yulin’s Coal Transport

By Drooid · · How we work

The Shift on Shaanxi Roads

In the coal-rich city of Yulin, Shaanxi province, battery-powered haul trucks are increasingly sharing the routes once dominated by diesel-fuelled rigs. Drivers such as Qu Shaolong, a 39-year-old hauler who has spent three years operating an electric truck, are using the new technology to sidestep diesel prices that have risen steadily this year.

Context: China’s Broader Energy Transition

The move reflects a larger national push to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. As China expands its network of charging stations, especially in industrial hubs like Yulin, electric vehicles are becoming viable alternatives for heavy-duty applications. The article notes that diesel prices have been climbing, creating economic pressure for operators to adopt lower-cost electric options.

Key Figure: Qu Shaolong

  • Qu Shaolong — 39-year-old electric-truck driver in Yulin, three years of experience with battery-operated haul trucks. He represents a growing cohort of operators who view electric power as the future of coal logistics.

Implications for China’s Energy Landscape

The adoption of electric trucks in a region traditionally centered on coal transport signals a tangible shift in China’s energy mix. By reducing diesel consumption, operators lower both fuel costs and emissions, contributing to the country’s climate-related goals. If the trend continues, the prevalence of electric haulage could accelerate the decline of diesel demand in heavy-industry sectors, reshaping the market dynamics for both energy producers and vehicle manufacturers.