A US not-for-profit clean energy solutions coalition called Climate United has introduced a programme aimed at offering affordable leasing options for electric trucks to small fleets and independent operators, with the goal of reducing costs and air pollution in communities around major ports. Starting at the Ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles, Climate United plans to expand this initiative across the US.
Funded through a $6.97 billion award from the Environmental Protection Agency’s National Clean Investment Fund, Climate United will invest up to $250 million to purchase 500 Class 8 electric trucks, marking the largest single order of electric trucks in the US to date.
“Electric drayage trucks cost less to operate, but high upfront costs make it difficult for independent owner-operators and small fleets to transition to all-electric,” said Climate United CEO Beth Bafford. “Through tax credits, incentives, and attractive financing, we are significantly reducing a cost barrier to sustain small businesses and help them lead the transition to electric vehicles. Investing in an inclusive green economy means supporting and growing small businesses, reducing pollution, and improving public health in local communities.”
Climate United is partnering with Forum Mobility, a California-based company, to tailor the programme to small fleet operators’ needs. Forum Mobility is building a network of secure electric truck charging depots near California ports and along key freight routes. They will also provide charging services to assist fleets in the transition to zero-emission vehicles. California’s regulations mandate that all 33,000 drayage trucks in the state be zero emission by 2035, and the partnership with Climate United aims to ensure that smaller operators are not left behind.
“Eighty percent of California’s drayage registry is comprised of small fleets, and it’s our job to make sure the transition to zero emissions leaves no one behind, that fleets of all sizes have the opportunity to prosper,” said Forum Mobility CEO Matt LeDucq. “The network of truck charging depots we are building will give fleets access to reliable charging, where they need it. For us, success means not just cleaner air for port communities, but also lower costs per mile for truckers.”
The Ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles handle over 30% of US container imports, with diesel truck emissions significantly impacting nearby communities, which are often low-income areas. The programme aims to reduce emissions by an estimated 50,000 tons of CO₂ annually, potentially mitigating health issues tied to air pollution, including asthma and respiratory illness.
Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson expressed optimism: “The Port of Long Beach plays a critical role in our nation’s supply chain and our local economy, and this project is an opportunity to become a global leader in the transition to zero emission trucks. By helping small fleet owners transition to electric trucks, we can support local businesses while creating cleaner air and better public health for local communities.”
Matt Schrap, CEO of the Harbor Trucking Association, also noted the importance of addressing costs in the shift to zero emission trucking. “HTA appreciates innovative solutions that can help support fleets in this push for zero emission. It is always encouraging to see a programme that reduces upfront costs by pairing both infrastructure and the truck together,” Schrap said.
US. Representative Nanette Diaz Barragán highlighted the program’s health and environmental goals: “Climate United’s announced RFP is a critical step toward a cleaner, healthier future for communities around the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. This $250 million commitment will reduce pollution, address the climate crisis, and improve public health.”
Climate United has issued a request for proposals from manufacturers to supply the 500 electric trucks, prioritising vehicles with US-made parts and assembly. Interested fleet operators can contact Forum Mobility to learn more about accessing the trucks, while manufacturers can find details at ClimateUnited.org.
Freight Carbon Zero’s view: A scheme like this would certainly benefit UK fleet operators. We wonder if there is a coalition of private businesses that could be formed in the UK to provide a similar scheme? Climate United’s Board is made up of clean energy, community and economic development, sustainable finance, civil rights, economic justice, and movement-building pioneers.
