One Energy Enterprises Inc. (“One Energy”), a vertically integrated industrial power solutions company, and Ohio Logistics Ltd. (“Ohio Logistics”), a leading warehousing, distribution, and transportation services provider, announced an extension of a collaborative project focused on exploring commercial-ready electric semi-truck technologies.
Over recent weeks, the two companies have been testing an electric shuttle-truck and an electric semi-truck. These tests are being used to gather crucial insights into how different electric trucks compare with diesel counterparts in performance and efficiency in a range of logistics roles. One Energy supported the testing process through the installation of essential charging infrastructure and equipment, and it is providing the power required for the tests. The vehicles currently under trial include an Orange EV e-TRIEVER heavy-duty yard truck, designed for short-distance yard service, and a Freightliner eCascadia, designed for medium range service. Access to the trucks was made available with the support of Penske.
Both models are being charged on One Energy’s corporate campus in Findlay, Ohio. The Orange EV e-TRIEVER operates locally between Ohio Logistics’ distribution centers in Findlay and is being charged using a specialized 22KW charger that is exclusive to its model. In contrast, the eCascadia is being charged with an ABB Terra 180KW charger and has been operating on local and regional routes, traveling as far as 100 miles to destinations like Columbus, OH.
“Orange EV is excited to participate in this important demonstration project in Findlay,” said Zack Ruderman, VP of Sales & Marketing, Orange EV. “The unique nature of our yard trucks makes them a great 'gateway vehicle' for companies considering starting their electric fleet transition in a profitable and proven way. We have over 200 customers using our Orange EV yard trucks and look forward to helping more companies in Ohio benefit from the electrification of their fleet, too."
To encourage broader trials of electric semis, One Energy is building a permanent semi charging station that will be fitted with multiple chargers, allowing for the testing of a wide range of electric truck models. This initiative will ensure that Ohio Logistics and other regional firms will be able to evaluate electric semis without the usual up-front and ongoing power challenges. Ohio Logistics plans to explore additional emerging electric fleet technologies as they consider the integration of electric trucks into their operations.
“The trucking industry is evolving, and Ohio Logistics is excited to be at the forefront of the electrification trend,” said Chuck Bills, CEO, Ohio Logistics. “Through these trials, our understanding of electric truck operations has expanded considerably. We are dedicated to ensuring our clientele is informed about the myriad of opportunities electric semis present. Currently, our focus is on learning and preparing for the trucking industry's imminent transition to a more sustainable future."
One Energy and Ohio Logistics have a shared vision to make the region a leader in electric trucking as the technologies prove themselves in the market. Both companies aim to engage other regional businesses in these trials, having recently held a joint open house to share their accrued knowledge and findings with regional peers.
"Electric trucks and their charging requirements are really uncharted territory,” said Jereme Kent, CEO, One Energy. “While these trucks have immense potential to change the logistics industry, their tremendous power needs are widely under-appreciated and often surpass the capacity of many distribution centers and factories. That is going to lead to opportunities for new partnerships and ways of operating. We hope that the ready-to-use power infrastructure at our Megawatt Hubs can bridge the power gap for the logistics industry and accelerate the transition to large electric fleets. "
