Sustainable Trucks – The Future is here
I was in Vegas recently to attend the Advanced Clean Technologies Conference (ACT). The conference was focused on how our industry needs to move towards reducing fossil fuels from the environment by moving towards electric, hydrogen or biofuel trucks.
Here are my key takeaways from the event:
1. Increasing adoption: As concerns over greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution grow, there is increasing demand for more environmentally friendly transportation solutions, including electric trucks. Governments and companies are setting goals to transition their fleets to electric vehicles over the next decade.
2. Battery technology improvements: Ongoing advancements in battery technology, such as higher energy density and faster charging times, are making electric trucks more practical and viable for longer-range hauling applications.
3. Lower operating costs: Electric trucks are expected to have lower operating costs compared to traditional diesel trucks, primarily due to the lower costs associated with maintenance and miles per charge.
4. Infrastructure development: The deployment of electric truck charging infrastructure, including high-power charging stations along major transportation routes, is crucial for enabling long-haul electric trucking. This is the largest hurdle in the adoption of this technology.
5. Regulatory support: Governments and regulatory bodies are implementing policies and incentives to encourage the adoption of electric trucks, such as emissions regulations, subsidies, and tax credits.
6. Technological advancements: Improvements in areas like autonomous driving, Connected Vehicle Technology (CVT), and advanced telematics systems are expected to further enhance the efficiency and safety of electric trucks.
While challenges remain, such as the high upfront costs and the need for widespread charging infrastructure, the future of electric trucks is gaining momentum as truck makers, governments, and businesses aim to reduce emissions and embrace more sustainable transportation solutions.
WBT is doing well with our sustainability program by being Smartway Certified with the Department of Energy and we learn more and more by attending these very informative events. I am always inspired by attending them and it allows me to strategize on how these new technologies will affect WBT in what seems to be the future.
Like I keep saying - WBT is 113 years old, but it is the next 113 that will be the most exciting! Call us today at 262-689-9202 to discuss your needs, your sustainability plan and how we can assist you with our service offerings.
Chris Greenberg,
President and C.O.O.
West Bend Transit and Service Co.