Suggested Citation:
Hardman, Scott and Vaishnavi Karanam (2026)

Brief: Electrifying Off-Road Equipment Remains a Heavy Lift

. Institute of Transportation Studies, University of California, Davis, Brief UCD-ITS-RR-26-02

Abstract:

California has ambitious electrification goals which include the electrification of 100% of off-road vehicles and equipment “where feasible.” While light duty vehicle electrification is progressing—25% of new car sales are now electric and the charging infrastructure is expanding—progress on electrifying off-road equipment, such as construction machinery, has been much slower.

To better understand the barriers and opportunities, we conducted interviews with 16 stakeholders, including construction firms, equipment manufacturers, rental companies, public agencies, other researchers, and nonprofits. Their insights highlight the technical, economic,and social challenges facing this sector, as well as potential strategies to accelerate adoption.