Amazon is introducing its largest fleet of heavy-duty electric trucks, now operational across Southern California, including the company’s first electric trucks in ocean freight operations. This initiative signifies Amazon’s commitment to investing in electric vehicles, with nearly 50 heavy-duty electric trucks being deployed in the US state, marking the largest fleet of its kind in any country to date.
The deployment of these electric trucks is a step towards Amazon’s goal of decarbonising every aspect of delivery, covering the first, middle, and last mile of the supply chain. These fully electric trucks will transport cargo containers and customer packages in first- and middle-mile operations, complementing the hundreds of last-mile electric vans already in operation.
Amazon’s ocean freight operations, which involve transporting goods from manufacturing locations through customs, across oceans, and into ports, are now powered by electric trucks, also known as drayage trucks. These trucks have commenced operations at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, with a dozen more expected to be deployed by the year’s end. The electric drayage trucks transport containers from the ports to an Amazon facility in Santa Fe Springs, California, facilitating the next phase of the supply chain.
In the middle mile, which involves moving customer orders between Amazon’s fulfillment centers, sort centres, air facilities, and delivery stations, Amazon has deployed 35 electric heavy-duty vehicles in Southern California. To support these trucks, over 45 direct current (DC) fast chargers have been installed across 11 sites.
Amazon’s electric heavy-duty trucks, manufactured by Volvo, offer a range of up to 275 miles and have a gross combination weight of 82,000lbs (37.2t). Equipped with safety features such as active collision mitigation, blind-spot detection, and lane departure warning, these trucks prioritise safety while delivering goods efficiently.
This initiative aligns with Amazon’s broader commitment to sustainability and its goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2040. In addition to electric trucks, Amazon is investing in alternative fuels such as green Hydrogen and biofuels to further reduce carbon emissions in its trucking and maritime operations. Collaborations with companies like Amogy and Infinium are driving innovation in sustainable technologies and services. Furthermore, Amazon’s sustainability efforts extend beyond transportation, with numerous initiatives in California aimed at reducing emissions and supporting local communities. These initiatives include renewable energy projects, low-carbon building certifications, and investments in environmental conservation.
