Coca-Cola Bottler Gets First Heavy-Duty EVs for California Trucking Fleet

Daimler Truck North America has delivered 20 zero-emission, battery-electric Freightliner eCascadia Class 8 tractors to Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling, a West Coast and Midwest bottler and distributor of Coca-Cola brands.

According to Daimler, these electric vehicles will join RCCB's fleet of delivery trucks in Downey, California. They represent the bottler’s first zero-emission heavy-duty tractors added to its California fleet.

RCCB’s eCascadias will rely solely on 20 Detroit eFill commercial charging stations that have been installed at the Downey facility. To complement the charging stations, RCCB is using the Detroit Charger Management System, a software solution providing a comprehensive view of their electric fleet, which enables efficient energy management to ultimately reduce operational costs.

Working closely with Detroit eConsulting, a team of emobility experts dedicated to helping fleets electrify, RCCB found the best site design and ways to integrate the eCascadias into its fleet.

“Our collaboration with Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling marks a significant milestone in promoting sustainable transportation,” said David Carson, senior vice president, sales and marketing, DTNA. “The integration of Freightliner eCascadias into RCCB's fleet showcases that business and environmental responsibility can go hand-in-hand, all while fostering innovation and efficiency.”

40,000 Gallons of Diesel a Year Unburned

RCCB expects deploying the trucks will result in the reduced use of 40,000 gallons of diesel fuel per year, and special graphics to underscore the trucks' all-electric operation.

The company has a goal of reducing carbon emissions in its operations by 30% by 2030.

The electric fleet for Downey, which now includes electric semi-trucks and electric customer care vehicles, will serve customers throughout Southern California.

More About the Battery-Electric Freightliner eCascadias

The eCascadia offers various battery and drive axle options, delivering a typical range of 155, 220, or 230 miles, depending on the specific setup. The multiple configurations offered are ideal for short and regional haul routes that involve depot-based charging, including tasks such as last mile logistics, local and regional distribution, drayage, and warehouse-to-warehouse operations.

Daimler said recharging takes as little as two and a half to three hours to reach 80% capacity, fostering enhanced efficiency.

Developed in-house and fully integrated, the Detroit ePowertrain prioritizes power, efficiency and reliability. For enhanced safety on the road, the eCascadia also comes standard with the Detroit Assurance suite of safety systems, including Active Brake Assist 5.