Electric Light Truck Market: Rent or Buy for Cost Efficiency?

The electric light truck market is seeing an oversupply of vehicles but a continued decline in freight rates, leading both users and operators of new energy logistics vehicles to reconsider their options. A key question that arises is whether it is more cost-effective to rent or buy electric light trucks. Interviews conducted with various distributors reveal differing operational strategies, but they share common insights on accounting for costs. Data indicates that in the first half of 2025, sales of new energy light trucks reached 63,681 units, up from 33,395 units in the same period of 2024, reflecting a 90.7% year-on-year increase in sales. The number of models available has also increased significantly, with a 25.6% rise in the variety of options. Customers now have a wider selection of electric light trucks to choose from, catering to different operational needs. Users engaged in short-distance freight can opt for light trucks with battery capacities of 82-100 kWh, while those needing inter-city transport can choose models with over 120 kWh. The launch of high-capacity models has made provincial transportation feasible. With battery costs decreasing, the operation costs for electric light trucks have also gone down, yet new concerns arise regarding low freight rates and battery price volatility, impacting the return on investment. Rental prices for standard 100-120 kWh trucks range from 4,500 to 5,500 yuan, whereas those with over 150 kWh can reach 6,500 to 8,000 yuan. Calculations show that the total operating costs for renting and buying tend to be similar over a three-year period. Dealers advise that a 'rent-then-buy' strategy is preferable, especially under current market conditions where risks in logistics operations may rise. The penetration of new energy light trucks has surpassed 24%, indicating a strong shift towards rental operations in the logistics sector. Ultimately, the choice between renting and buying depends on the user's specific needs, and there is no definitive answer, only what is suitable for each situation.