Battery-Electric Truck News Updates

Beverage company Anheuser-Busch announced it will deploy 21 Class 8 battery-electric trucks in its California fleet as part of a state project to showcase economically and environmentally sustainable warehousing and distribution technology.

Daimler Trucks announced an agreement with battery manufacturer Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. to supply lithium-ion battery cell modules for its electric trucks, including the Mercedes-Benz eActros, Freightliner eCascadia and Freightliner eM2.

Startup truck manufacturer Nikola Corp. has secured a commitment of $250 million in funding from CNH Industrial N.V. — a leader in natural gas-powered trucks and buses and the parent company of Iveco trucks — in a move designed to accelerate the use of heavy-duty trucks that use battery-electric and fuel cell technologies in North America and Europe.

Best Transportation announced it used a Class 8 battery-electric vehicle to deliver a container from Port Newark to a Costco wholesale location within New Jersey without incident, calling it a first at the port and part of the carrier’s ongoing evaluation of electric trucks.

Battery-electric medium-duty trucks may have a bright future due to their potential to reduce operational costs and improve sustainability. But currently, the availability of these trucks is limited as testing continues.

WASHINGTON — Federal policymakers crafting comprehensive transportation legislation should consider enhancing investments in low-emissions technologies across the freight sector, an executive with Cummins Inc. told a congressional panel July 16.

The Kraft Heinz Co. announced the deployment of three T-Series battery-electric terminal trucks from Orange EV at its distribution center in Groveport, Ohio.

The Energy Department on April 3 announced that about $59 million is available for stakeholders seeking to develop projects that prioritize energy-efficient mobility systems, improve materials for powertrains, co-optimize advanced engine and fuel technologies, and create new mobility options.

LAS VEGAS — Kenworth Truck Co. and Toyota are collaborating to develop 10 hydrogen-electric tractors for drayage operations in the Los Angeles basin, the companies announced.

LAS VEGAS — Daimler Trucks North America announced SAE Level 2 automated driving will be available beginning in July on its flagship Freightliner Cascadia model, calling it an industry first.