Expanding zero-emission operations across the U.S. is no easy task, especially given that the majority of the country lacks the necessary charging infrastructure, to say the least.
Building upon the first-of-its-kind zero-emissions carrier coalition, the Smart Freight Centre, a global non-profit that focuses on decarbonizing the commercial freight sector, has announced its latest corporate partners to assist in testing long-haul, heavy-duty battery-electric vehicle operations along the I-10 corridor located between Los Angeles, California and El Paso, Texas.
The latest members should ring the familiarity bell. C.H. Robinson, DHL Supply Chain, Electrolux Group, and IKEA have joined the coalition alongside previously announced members including AIT Worldwide Logistics, Maersk, Microsoft, and PepsiCo.
[Related: DHL declares: 'Tesla Semi is ready for prime time']
Terawatt Infrastructure, which specializes in electrifying fleets with its network of charging solutions, has been selected to do the same for this project, which is set to kick off in 2027.
[Related: Terawatt's first medium, heavy-duty EV charging site is up and running]
Coalition members will be exclusively using Terawatt's charging hubs along the I-10, enabling shippers and carriers to test electric truck operations, supported by Terawatt’s software, operations, maintenance, and smart charging.
To ensure maximum range, each site will boast Megawatt Charging System (MCS) chargers capable of powering Class 8 rigs in a relatively short period of time.
“We’re proud to work alongside some of the world’s biggest shippers and carriers to chart a path towards electrified transport that is achievable and scalable,” said Neha Palmer, CEO and co-founder of Terawatt. “As we continue to take new fleet charging hubs live, we look forward to sharing important learnings to advance the entire electric truck ecosystem and demonstrate what’s possible with regards to EV technology, emissions reductions, and cost parity.”
