Volvo Trucks North America and Tradelink Transport, a minority-owned trucking company based in Compton, California, have partnered to deploy Volvo VNR electric trucks in California.

Tradelink deployed 15 Volvo VNR Electric trucks for drayage operations at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. This move supports Tradelink’s commitment to lowering emissions and improving air quality in a vital freight corridor.

Tradelink operates 48 trucks, including 21 compressed natural gas (CNG) trucks and 12 diesel-powered vehicles. The addition of the Volvo VNR Electric trucks supports the company’s sustainability goals and strengthens service capabilities, it said.

“Transitioning to BEV trucks represents a major shift in business operations and demands collaboration and meticulous planning,” said Peter Voorhoeve, president, Volvo Trucks North America. “We are immensely grateful to Tradelink Transport for placing their trust in Volvo Trucks. Their deployment of 15 Volvo VNR Electric trucks stands as a true example of how fleets can lead the charge in electrification. As well as help their business reach their sustainability goals while elevating operational efficiency.”

Volvo VNR Electric Trucks Improve Driver Experience

Tradelink’s electric fleet runs primarily within a 100-mile radius. It covers morning routes to the Inland San Bernardino and Riverside areas and shorter local trips in the afternoon. Drivers use the trucks five to six days a week and charge them overnight.

Tradelink views the Volvo VNR Electric trucks as a strategic investment in driver satisfaction. The company uses an employee-driver model and considers battery-electric vehicles essential for recruitment and retention. The trucks reduce noise, heat, and vibration, offering a smoother, quieter ride.

“Once drivers experience battery-electric trucks, they often don’t want to switch back to conventional vehicles,” said Rigoberto Cea, president, Tradelink Transport. “The Volvo VNR Electric truck provides a smooth, quiet ride. We’ve seen strong enthusiasm from our team as they adapt to this new technology.”

Strategic Planning Enables Efficient Electrification

Tradelink partnered with Volvo Trucks and TEC Equipment – La Mirada, a Volvo Trucks Certified Electric Vehicle Dealer. The team used Volvo’s Electric Performance Generator (EPG) tool to map efficient operating routes.

“We have gained valuable insights into deploying battery-electric trucks and the supporting charging infrastructure,” said Cea. “Volvo Trucks and TEC Equipment have been invaluable partners in helping us scale our electric fleet. We are also fortunate to have a great landlord who was open and willing to work through the easements when deploying infrastructure.”

Charging Infrastructure Powers Fleet Expansion

Tradelink and TEC Equipment – La Mirada secured multiple funding sources to build its charging network. It used programs like California’s HVIP, the Carl Moyer Program, and Southern California Edison’s Drayage Rebate. Tradelink also participated in SCE’s Charge Ready Transport Infrastructure program and received an EnergIIZE grant from the California Energy Commission.

The facility now features six ABB Terra 184 chargers and one ABB Terra 350 with dual dispensers.

“At TEC Equipment, we understand the critical importance for fleets to adopt more sustainable transportation options and we are thrilled to have supported Tradelink in securing the necessary funding to enable their growing fleet’s move to battery-electric trucks,” said Melanie Des Laurier, new truck sales at TEC Equipment. “Tradelink’s new Volvo VNR Electric trucks represent a forward-thinking approach to reducing tailpipe emissions and noise associated with transportation and promoting cleaner air quality. With TEC Equipment’s comprehensive support, including helping to secure grants and incentives, Tradelink is well-equipped to lead by example in the transition to zero-emission technology.”