Zero-emission trucks

The Port of Oakland is debuting the ten new battery electric trucks at Shippers Transport Express (STE), in a demo project which will take place over the next three months.

“Getting these cleaner-running and quieter trucks into service is a major step in testing the feasibility of battery electric trucks moving containers,” said Bryan Brandes, maritime director, Port of Oakland.

Green investment

The Peterbilt trucks cost a total of US$5.1 million and are being used to haul cargo within the port’s maritime area. Funding for the trucks comes from a Zero And Near-Zero-Emission Freight Facility program (ZANZEFF) grant.

In addition, the port has also invested US$1.7 million to construct ten electric charging stations at STE and built a new electrical substation and power line extension to connect to the charging stations.

These construction projects took about two years to complete and advance the Port’s plan for reducing emissions from Oakland Seaport sources.

The port’s monetary and construction commitments served as a grant funding match for the electric truck demonstration project. Additionally, this project is a “Near Term Action” in the Port of Oakland’s Seaport Air Quality 2020 and Beyond Plan.

This battery electric truck demonstration project is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It expands options for another clean, cargo-handling technology at California ports.

The data collected will include emissions reductions measurements. The trucks will also be monitored for how effectively they operate when hauling fully loaded containers.