Japanese automaker Nissan now employs two heavy-duty all-electric Class 8 delivery trucks as its haulers from Los Angeles Port to its Los Angeles dealerships, per the press release. Apparently, the move is part of the automaker’s new trial with Nikola and Kenworth, which aims to shift away from conventional car haulers.
“Exploring the use of BEV trucks for new vehicle delivery is an important milestone in our journey toward carbon neutrality throughout our business. By being an early adopter of this technology, we’re showcasing our innovative spirit and positioning ourselves to meet our long-term goals for zero-tailpipe-emission transportation.”
Chris Styles, Nissan North America’s Supply Chain Management VP
Pilot program
The partnership committed Nikola and Kenworth to provide one electric truck each. The Nikola Tre BEV is a zero-emission class 8 electric semi-truck with a maximum range of 330 miles and a horsepower of 645 continuously.
Apart from the electric truck makers, the operation has also sought the aid of logistics partner Avant-Garde Auto Logistics LLC in Smyrna, Tenn. The Japanese automaker has also tapped its existing logistics partner Wallenius Wilhelmsen for the necessary charging infrastructure in Los Angeles port.
As per the announcement, the first delivery operation will carry the 2023 Ariya electric crossover to Downey Nissan in California.
Interestingly, Nissan intends to deploy more trucks in the Los Angeles region after the initial trial program.
In return, the Japanese automaker may eventually start deploying all-electric trucks for a range of logistics applications by building on the experiences acquired from these programs. Indeed, the program will aid Nissan’s 2050 carbon neutrality target throughout its operations.
