J.B. Hunt Transport Services recently completed its first delivery using a Freightliner eCascadia all-electric Class 8 truck.

The 120-mile intermodal Walmart haul kicked off a three-month testing phase in which J.B. Hunt will integrate the eCascadia with its day-to-day fleet operations in Los Angeles.

“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.”

With a full charge allowing for a driving range of up to 250 miles, the eCascadia’s zero tailpipe emissions will reduce the fleet’s carbon footprint, making it ideal for local and regional distribution and drayage. The all-electric tractor comes with a 525-hp engine and can recharge up to 80% in about 90 minutes.

"The collaboration between vehicle manufacturer and transportation logistics experts is a necessity to develop these industry leading technologies, and we’re proud to share this journey with our important customers J.B. Hunt and Walmart,” said Richard Howard, senior vice president of on-highway sales and marketing at Daimler Trucks North America.  

Charging stations have been installed at the Los Angeles terminal, and drivers are being trained on an ongoing basis to operate the vehicle. This test is part of the Freightliner Customer Experience Fleet, an initiative to provide DTNA customers with first-hand experience implementing electric vehicles within their operations.

“This new pilot is reflective of J.B. Hunt’s commitment to maximizing the sustainability of their fleet, and we look forward to learning more as the company tests new innovations to help meet the demands of business in a more sustainable way,” said Jane Ewing, senior vice president of sustainability for Walmart.