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I understand that hauling on the flat long distances wouldn't see much improvement, but for any truck regularly encountering a grade, it would be very beneficial to have electrics kick in to supplement an undersized diesel motor. You would also get regen on the back side of the hill and run less danger of cooking the brakes.
Payload would be reduced, but by how much? If you undersize an engine, that will help to offset some of the additional weight.
It seems the trucking industry would pay particular attention to efficiency, but I just don't see it. Trucks have historically been very un-aerodynamic with dual stacks, duel air cleaners, visors, flat windshields, and no thought at all to the rear end. Most trucks in Oregon will cruise around 62MPH, which can't be nearly as efficient as 55 (legal limit). On the road shoulder these rigs are idled all night long to maintain comfort and provide electricity.
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