Making the transition from traditional diesel-powered tractors to state-of-the-art zero-emission alternatives is not always a simple process, as many operators have learned. These constraints, however, are not a reason to abandon switching to battery-electric or hydrogen fuel cell (FCEV) vehicles but the headache still exists.
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Enter the Center for Transportation and the Environment (CTE), a nonprofit organization now offering complimentary ZEV Transition Plans for Class 4-8 operators. The funding comes courtesy of a Strategic Industry Grant from the C.H. Robinson Foundation, which supports nonprofits committed to advancing the supply chain and logistics industry through innovation and sustainability.
Each ZEV Transition Plan is custom designed to meet the needs of a company's fleet and overall operations. CTE begins the process by conducting in-depth technical advisory services, evaluating key factors such as ZEV feasibility, infrastructure requirements, total cost of ownership, and emissions reductions.
This roadmap certainly sounds promising and be a great starting point for fleets wanting to take that immediate ZEV step. What's more, the project's model is totally replicable to serve as a guide for additional fleets.
[Related: 2024 State of Sustainability Fleets Report - What you need to know]
The CTE and the C.H. Robinson Foundation's strategic partnership ultimately aims to deliver systematic change for commercial fleets big and small thanks to its forward-thinking insights and methodologies.
“CTE is honored to receive this Strategic Industry Grant from the C.H. Robinson Foundation,” said Dan Raudebaugh, executive director of CTE. “This award underscores the importance of collaboration in driving the supply chain industry toward a cleaner, more sustainable future. Together, we can create meaningful change by equipping fleet operators with the tools and strategies they need to successfully transition to zero-emission vehicles.”
Commercial fleets nationwide are asked to apply by submitting an Expression of Interest form by Wednesday, January 29, 2025.
