J.B. Hunt makes delivery with all-electric Cascadia

Updated Aug 16, 2020
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J.B. Hunt Transport recently completed its first delivery using the Freightliner eCascadia, Daimler Trucks North America’s all-electric Class 8 truck.

The delivery, a 120-mile intermodal haul for Walmart, kicks off a three-month testing phase in which J.B. Hunt will use the eCascadia in its day-to-day fleet operations in Los Angeles, according to a statement from the company.

“J.B. Hunt is continually exploring innovative solutions such as the eCascadia to improve the sustainability of our fleet and operations,” said Craig Harper, executive vice president and chief operations officer at J.B. Hunt. “We are excited to test this vehicle and gain more hands-on experience with all-electric tractors.”

On a full charge, the series-produced eCascadia is expected to have a driving range of up to 250 miles, making it ideal for local and regional distribution and drayage, according to the company. The all-electric tractor has a 525-horsepower engine and can recharge as much as 80 percent in just 90 minutes.

Charging stations have been installed at the Los Angeles terminal, and drivers are being trained on an ongoing basis to operate the vehicle.