Estes has added its first zero-emission electric Class 8 tractors to its nationwide fleet. The battery-electric trucks will service some of the company’s West Coast operations through its terminal in Banning, California. On the other side of the country, Estes completed solar projects at two New Jersey terminals.

Battery-Electric Trucks

The 12 Freightliner eCascadia trucks can travel roughly 230 miles on a single charge, making them ideal for local pickup and delivery assignments, the company said.

“It’s fair to say these EV trucks caught our drivers by surprise in how much they enjoyed operating them, all of whom noted how quiet, smooth, and agile they were,” said Michael Haynes, Banning terminal manager.

Other EVs

The addition of electric trucks to Estes’ fleet marks another important step in its sustainability initiatives. Estes also has 300 electric forklifts, accounting for 10% of its total forklift numbers, and two electric yard jockeys to relocate trailers within a terminal and lot. 

“This EV initiative is just one more way that Estes is focusing on sustainability and the environment,” said Sara Graf, vice president of sustainability, culture, and communications at Estes.

Solar Projects in New Jersey

Estes and Dynamic Energy Solutions recently completed two rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) installations at Estes’ terminals in Lakewood and Pine Brook, New Jersey. Both installations offset nearly 100% of the energy demands for the facilities, Estes said.

The total savings over 25 years is expected to surpass $1 million based on projected energy savings and future energy costs, Estes reported.

“The freight industry is incredibly energy intensive, and efforts like this help Estes offset expenses in this area while furthering our investment in clean, sustainable energy sources,” said Webb Estes, president and COO.

The New Jersey terminals are the fourth and fifth solar installations Estes has completed with Dynamic Energy. Similar rooftop solar projects have been installed at Estes’ terminals in West Middlesex, Pennsylvania; Elkton and Baltimore, Maryland; and Greensboro, North Carolina. Additional projects are underway in Norfolk, Virginia, and Joliet, Illinois.

Altogether, the 2.4 MW portfolio is expected to generate approximately 1,667,000 kilowatt hours annually, which the trucking company said will offset approximately 1,180 metric tons of carbon dioxide each year.

“The transportation and logistics sector accounts for roughly a third of the country’s energy consumption, and it’s critical more organizations like Estes take steps to offset their energy use through solar and other renewable energy sources,” said John Conley, president and CEO of Dynamic Energy.