4 Gen Logistics, a family-owned drayage company in Southern California, has deployed 41 Volvo VNR Electric trucks to haul freight throughout the Inland Empire and between the Port of Long Beach and distribution warehouses in the region.
According to a statement from Volvo, the company decided to scale its zero-emission fleet after gaining experience with battery-electric trucks by utilizing a Volvo VNR Electric truck that was deployed as part of the Volvo LIGHTS project in 2022.
“We commend the Duncan family for their dedication to sustainable transportation solutions. With over half of their fleet already converted to battery-electric, they're setting a remarkable standard for environmental responsibility which is particularly important for the disadvantaged communities in which they operate,” said Jared Ruiz, regional vice president – West, Volvo Trucks North America. “We're excited to collaborate with our dealer partner, TEC Equipment, to support the 4 Gen Logistics team in optimizing the benefits of their Volvo VNR Electric trucks.”
With two driver shifts daily, 4 Gen Logistics’ Volvo VNR Electric fleet logs up to 240 miles per shift. The six-battery package configuration Volvo VNR Electric has a range of up to 275 miles and can achieve an 80% charge in about 90 minutes. Additionally, the truck's ultra-quiet operation, uninterrupted torque, and smooth acceleration contribute to a comfortable driving experience.
“We have more than 15,000 miles on our first Volvo VNR Electric that was deployed in 2022. Driver feedback has been extremely positive and played a crucial role in our decision to invest in additional Volvo VNR Electric trucks to support our commitment to operating a 100% zero-tailpipe emission fleet by 2025,” said David Duncan, the owner of 4 Gen Logistics. “Drivers are adapting quickly to the battery-electric trucks and improving their range each week as they learn to use the regenerative braking.”
To charge its growing battery-electric fleet, 4 Gen Logistics utilized its property in the Port of Long Beach area to build and operate charging infrastructure. Once fully built and energized, the site will include 60 350 kW charging stations. 4 Gen Logistics is adding 30 additional 350 kW charging stations at its Rialto facility to support its growing battery-electric fleet.
Oregon college improves driving school facilities
Umpqua Community College has completed an extensive remodel of its Truck Driving School. The reimagined facility at the Oregon college enhances the educational experience for aspiring commercial drivers needed to fill local jobs and provides a center for continued growth of the program.
UCC’s truck driving program offers a four-week comprehensive program that includes 160-hours of hands-on instruction. Last year, the addition of nights and weekend class options to the program resulted in 92 students obtaining their commercial driver’s license (CDL). An estimated 136 students are expected to complete the program this year, based on current trends in enrollment and completion. Improvements and additional classroom space will allow for an even greater number of students to receive their CDLs in 2025.
A group that advises the college made up of industry stakeholders, saw a need for improvements to the facility and procured a $75,000 grant from the Douglas County commissioners for yard improvements and building renovations. Additional funding for the remodel project was made possible through grant funding from Douglas County and the State of Oregon as a result from federal funds received by the state under the American Rescue Plan Act Coronavirus State Fiscal Recovery Fund. Construction management provided by Umpqua Indian Development Corporation helped ensure successful completion of the project. UCC contributed $15k in additional funding.
Remodeling highlights inclkude:
- Complete 1,150 square foot building remodel with added features
- Improved classroom technology
- Larger classroom size allows for additional students
- Additional private office for individual meetings with students and more computers
- Break room with new appliances
- New lighting and cabinetry installed throughout the facility
- Welcome area positioned at the front of the building for public interaction
- New exterior paint and UCC Truck School signage
- Resurfaced yard and outdoor light posts were installed for improved training and safety
UCC's Truck Driving School is located in Myrtle Creek (exit 113 from Interstate 5).
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