Construction Law

Make Way for Electric Vehicles on the Jobsite Part 1

The market for electric vehicles in construction, agriculture, and mining is estimated to be $87 billion by the year 2028, and for good reason, as electric vehicles offer many advantages to their diesel counterparts. However, the road ahead is paved with challenges that will have to be surmounted before every tractor, crane, and truck in the construction industry goes electric. In this two-part series, a Wichita construction lawyer at Cotney Construction Law will detail the needs, challenges, and applications of electric vehicles on construction sites.  

An assemblage of electric vehicles isn’t the only team that runs smoothly. At Cotney Construction Law, you can gain an efficient legal partner that will work tirelessly to ensure that your rights are always protected. Please consult with a Wichita construction attorney for all of your legal needs.  

The Many Benefits of Electric Vehicles

Electric vehicles aren’t new to industrial professions. They’ve been used for years in the mining industry, where electric vehicles are a cost-effective necessity. Remote mining sites feature confined spaces that make the use of diesel fuel not only expensive, but also dangerous, and additional money must be spent to expel noxious exhaust from tunnels. Not only do electric vehicles have zero emissions, but they are also far more efficient than vehicles with combustion engines. Whether by battery or an electric grid, electric vehicles can save construction companies money, which is why they will eventually replace their competition.

Battery-Operated Challenges

There are challenges that will need to be addressed before electric vehicles can make their way onto every jobsite. For one, the world has never seen such a demand for batteries. This could result in a shortage of lithium, an essential mineral for powering electric vehicles, laptops, phones, and countless other devices. Lithium supplies will have to keep up with this growing demand.

Electric vehicles are also ill-equipped to provide the power required for certain tasks, and it will take time before battery-powered vehicles can fill every needed role on the jobsite. A power grid with overhead cables may be necessary to give electric vehicles the energy needed to carry heavy loads or make it up steep slopes.

For more information on how electric vehicles are being implemented in the construction industry, please read part two.

If you would like to speak with a Wichita construction attorney, please contact us today.

 

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.