As the logistics industry faces sustained freight rate pressure, fleet owners and individual truckers are weighing up gas and diesel trucks for operational cost optimization. A comprehensive comparison of purchase, fuel, maintenance and residual value costs provides clear guidance for vehicle selection and fleet layout.
In terms of initial purchase cost, LNG gas heavy trucks are priced RMB 60,000 to 100,000 higher than equivalent diesel models, due to specialized high-pressure gas storage tanks and dedicated gas power systems. In contrast, diesel trucks feature lower upfront investment, sufficient spot inventory and diverse models, making them suitable for short-term operation and vehicles with annual mileage below 100,000 kilometers.
Fuel cost is the core advantage of gas trucks. Based on current market prices, the fuel cost of diesel trucks per 100 kilometers is nearly twice that of LNG gas trucks. Operating 150,000 kilometers annually, gas trucks can save about RMB 100,000 in fuel fees, with no need for urea supplementation, further cutting daily operating expenses. However, seasonal LNG price surges in winter will narrow its cost advantage.
For maintenance, gas trucks produce less carbon deposition, extending engine service life and avoiding DPF failure issues, yet they require regular gas tank inspections and have fewer professional maintenance outlets. Diesel trucks boast universal spare parts and nationwide maintenance networks, with more convenient and affordable daily repairs.
In terms of residual value, diesel trucks have mature second-hand trading channels and stable value retention. Restricted by gas station distribution, gas trucks have limited resale scenarios. Industry insiders suggest choosing gas trucks for fixed long-distance routes with sufficient gas supply, and diesel trucks for short-term operation and complex remote routes.
