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Climate United, a Maryland-based non-profit, plans to spend $250 million over three years to purchase up to 500 electric semi-trucks, which it claims is the largest single order of zero-emission Class 8 trucks in the US. Upon receipt, the trucks will be leased back to trucking fleets at reduced rates to encourage a quicker transition towards electric vehicles. The purchasing program is funded by a $6.97 billion grant from the National Clean Investment Fund, part of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund created under President Joe Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act.
Nonprofit Climate United to Invest in Zero Emission Trucks
Maryland-based non-profit organization Climate United plans to spend $250 million on acquiring up to 500 electric semi-trucks, in what is being referred to as “the largest single order of zero-emission Class 8 trucks.”
The group’s intention isn’t to operate the trucks but to lease them to trucking fleets at attractive rates. This strategy aims to incentivize truckers transporting containers to and from California seaports to transition to battery electric vehicles (BEVs) by offsetting higher initial costs compared to diesel.
“High upfront costs often deter small fleets and independent owner-operators from transitioning to all-electric,” states Beth Bafford, CEO of Climate United.
The nonprofit plans to place initial orders in Q1 2025, prioritizing Class 8 electric semi-trucks made in the US with domestically manufactured parts. Possible suppliers include Volvo VNR Electric, Kenworth T680e, and BYD 8TT tandem axle day cab.
US Congresswoman Nanette Diaz Barragán applauds the move, stating it is a critical step towards a cleaner future for communities around the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, which have long suffered from diesel pollution.
The purchase program is funded by a $6.97 billion grant from the National Clean Investment Fund, part of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund established under the Inflation Reduction Act.
Climate United is also collaborating with Forum Mobility, which is constructing charging depots at California ports and on common freight routes. Jacqueline Torres, a VP at Forum Mobility, believes this program unites two crucial elements for the successful adoption of electric vehicles.
Efforts like these directed at encouraging the shift to electric vehicles are beneficial as they help reduce air pollution and make the transition more affordable for commercial fleet operators.
SOURCE | IMAGES: Climate United, via Reuters.
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