Daimler Truck North America (DTNA) has introduced a battery-electric Freightliner eCascadia into its aftermarket operations in Arizona. The vehicle is being operated by the manufacturer’s logistics partner J.B. Hunt Transport to deliver aftermarket parts from DTNA’s parts distribution centre in Phoenix to multiple dealers.
The route covers approximately 100 miles daily and marks the first all-electric route in DTNA’s aftermarket parts distribution network. To support this initiative, DTNA installed a Detroit eFill charger at its Phoenix facility.
Brian Lewallen, President of Detroit Reman and General Manager of DTNA Parts Operations said: “The introduction of this fully electric route is a significant step in our commitment to sustainability and part of our ongoing efforts to reduce carbon emissions within our logistics operations.”
J.B. Hunt began piloting the eCascadia in 2020 and now owns and operates several eCascadias on behalf of customers. “This solution with DTNA is a great example of our commitment to supporting customers’ efforts to reduce their carbon footprint and work towards energy transition,” said Greer Woodruff, Executive Vice President of Safety, Sustainability and Maintenance at J.B. Hunt.
The Arkansas-based logistics operator offers various solutions to help customers reduce carbon emissions, including alternative powered equipment, intermodal conversion, and empty-mile reduction. JB Hunt also uses a ‘carbon diet methodology’ and is expanding biogenic fuel usage. In 2023, the operator passed the halfway point towards its goal of cutting carbon emissions by 32% between 2019 and 2034.
DTNA, meanwhile, is exploring ways to expand its use of electric vehicles in its logistics operations. The initiative with JB Hunt is part of DTNA’s broader sustainability strategy, which includes achieving CO₂-neutral production at all its truck manufacturing plants by 2026 and developing solutions for the entire lifecycle of electric vehicle batteries.
