08/03/2023 19:15

As sustainability becomes an increasingly important issue for businesses and governments around the world, the transportation industry is being forced to adapt in order to reduce its impact on the environment.

One company taking a leadership role in this effort is Freight Group, a major player in the freight transportation industry. With a focus on heavy-duty charging infrastructure for electric trucks and vehicles, Freight Group is leading the charge when it comes to sustainable transportation solutions.

In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at Freight Group's innovative approach to heavy-duty charging infrastructure and how it is helping to reduce emissions and improve air quality.

We'll explore the benefits of electric trucks and vehicles for both the environment and the bottom line of businesses in the freight industry.

We'll also examine some of the challenges associated with electric trucks and vehicle adoption, and how Freight Group is working to overcome these obstacles.

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The Advocates

A coalition comprising various entities vested in the transportation of merchandise has put forward a proposal aimed at heightening emphasis on the heavy-duty sector.

Meanwhile, national policymakers and regulatory authorities remain committed to the nationwide promotion of electric vehicles and different vehicle types.

The coalition asserts that it is imperative to accord due attention to the needs and apprehensions of the heavy-duty sector as the implementation of these endeavors progresses.

Heavy Duty Trucks Should be Battery Electric Trucks

In the early stages of their formal discussions with influential authorities, the Clean Freight Coalition adamantly advocated for the allocation of dedicated funds aimed at advancing the electrification of the trucking sector within the broader context of transportation.

On the 26th of July 2023, the collective convened with the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation, as well as policymakers who hold a key stake in the matter.

During a meeting with the joint office and members of Congress, the executive director of the coalition stated that they were eager to discuss the challenges faced by the heavy-duty vehicle industry.

He revealed that they shared several concerns and challenges with the dignitaries and looked forward to collaborative efforts in overcoming these issues.

In its commitment to championing the interests of the industry, Mullen affirmed that the coalition would persist in furnishing federal authorities with pertinent empirical evidence in order to facilitate their decision-making process.

As an illustration, the consortium highlighted a recent survey that concluded that an exponential increase in the number of charging stations for commercial Class 8 vehicles would be imperative to fulfill federal targets. For sure Medium- and heavy-duty trucks owners are wondering about the future electricity costs in exchange for a lower air pollution rate in North America.

Of course, Medium-Duty trucks, conventional vehicles, and every fleet customers are also on standby for future trends.

The Provisions

The provision of authentic and empirical data is paramount, and the Clean Freight Coalition's constituents are optimally positioned to offer such data.

Consequently, we eagerly anticipate bestowing such information upon them and collaborating with them.

Diversification of fuel sources must be a subject of discourse, and their response was receptive.

This initial interaction is but the opening salvo, and we are enthusiastic about future exchanges, given their evident interest in continuing the dialogue.

Battery prices, fiscal incentives, demand charges, capital costs, repair costs, financial incentives, same as cost savings, driver costs, and commercial applications are also in discussion by electric fleet owners and Medium- And Heavy-Duty vehicle owners across the United States.

As Per ATA

Dan Van Alstine, the esteemed Chairman of the American Trucking Associations and the President and COO at Ruan Transportation Management Systems, actively participated in the deliberations.

It is noteworthy that the ATA is a proud member of this coalition.

With a collective desire for constructive and collaborative discourse, our coalition is determined to overcome the various challenges that impede our progress.

These barricades can be surmounted only through a concerted effort in sharing data, foster objectivity, and acknowledge realities pertaining to both time and technology.

In this regard, Mr. Van Alstine spoke of a successful day where our coalition demonstrated its unwavering commitment, along with that of the trucking community, towards achieving our common goals.

The Mandate

The coalition is currently grappling with a mandate from the California Air Resources Board, which stipulates that manufacturers must switch from diesel-powered trucks and vans to electric zero-emission trucks in the near future. The e-truck fleet is the goal for any truck type in the market.

One of the primary concerns for the coalition is the need for adequate lead times across all market segments, to ensure that these vehicles are both affordable and supported by the necessary infrastructure.

Scott McCandless, Chairman of American Truck Dealers and a member of the coalition, has expressed concern that the government's approach to regulating zero-emission vehicles could actually hinder rather than accelerate their adoption by truck customers. Base scenarios are cited in front of decision makers at the Federal Level.

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 has given rise to the establishment of the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation.

The office has been tasked with the responsibility of developing a nationwide electric truck vehicle charging network. The bipartisan infrastructure law, signed by President Joe Biden, has allocated approximately $8 billion toward electric vehicle programs to support alternative fuels.

As stated by the Biden administration, the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation will play a crucial role in the successful implementation of the bipartisan infrastructure law.

It will provide extensive support and knowledge to an array of programs that aim to deploy a network of electric vehicle chargers, zero-emission fueling infrastructure, and zero-emission transit and school buses. Moreover, the office’s scope will continue to expand in accordance with directives from both departments. 

The Meetings

In the course of meetings with legislators on Capitol Hill, the coalition advocated for the removal of a World War I-era excise tax on new trucks, which is still in effect despite pending legislation.

The Modern, Clean, and Safe Trucks Act of 2023 was introduced earlier this year by Senators Ben Cardin (D-Md.) and Todd Young (R-Ind.).

Young has made a case for the repeal of the outdated and burdensome tax on Hoosier truckers, while the House has introduced a similar bill. Both measures are currently awaiting review by a committee.

The coalition has contended that getting rid of the long-established 12% tax would aid the freight industry in upgrading its commercial vehicle fleets, as it is currently seen as a hindrance to progress by the sector.

Cost of ownership model of any electric truck will surely be easier. It's time to electrify America as they say.

Electric freight vehicles purchase from any electric motors and electric truck deployments will be faster.

The Immediate Benefits

In order to achieve the greatest immediate benefit to the environment, which is a shared goal among all parties involved, it was stressed that the federal excise tax must be repealed, as affirmed by Mullen.

Rep. Doug LaMalfa (R-Calif.), a co-sponsor, further explained that the repeal of the 12% federal excise tax on heavy trucks and trailers would result in reduced costs for businesses, improved supply chain operations, and decreased prices for essential products in rural areas.

The Clean Freight Coalition comprises esteemed organizations such as ATA, ATD, Natso, the National Motor Freight Traffic Association, the National Tank Truck Carriers, and the Truckload Carriers Association.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, the Freight Group's investment in heavy-duty charging infrastructure is a significant step forward in sustainable transportation.

The company's commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting a cleaner environment underscores its corporate responsibility and leadership in the industry. As more companies embrace sustainable practices, the Freight Group serves as a model for others to follow.

By prioritizing environmental sustainability, the company is contributing to a better future for all, and we commend their efforts in this regard.

If you want to stay updated with the current trends in the trucking, freight, and logistics industry, stay connected to us.

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