WattEV Launches Largest Electric Truck Charging Depot Yet
In a significant milestone for the electrification of heavy-duty trucks, WattEV, a prominent commercial truck charging infrastructure developer, unveiled its largest charging station to date at the Port of Long Beach, California.
The grand opening ceremony on July 24 marked the successful completion of a 14-month endeavor, which aims to accelerate the adoption of zero-emission transportation in the region.
The cutting-edge facility boasts 13 dual-cord CCS 360 kW chargers, with the capacity to simultaneously charge 26 electric trucks, powered by a robust 5MW from Southern California Edison. Designed to cater to heavy-duty electric trucks traveling to and from inland destinations throughout Southern California, the Long Beach depot serves as a crucial link in WattEV’s planned electric-truck charging freight corridor, set to span major freight routes across the West.
WattEV’s ultimate goal is to introduce 12,000 heavy-duty electric trucks on California roads by 2030, surpassing current forecasts and making a significant impact on reducing emissions in the trucking industry.
Striding Towards Zero-Emission Transportation
The inauguration ceremony drew industry leaders, government officials, and environmental stakeholders, emphasizing the depot’s pivotal role in curbing diesel exhaust emissions generated by trucks operating in the port area. The project’s total cost, estimated between $5 million and $6 million, was made possible through collaborative efforts with organizations such as Calstart, Southern California Edison, and the Harbor Community Benefit Foundation.
With 14 brand-new Nikola Tre electric trucks already in operation, the facility showcases the strides being made towards zero-emission transportation. As part of WattEV’s vision to provide accessible, affordable, and reliable electric Class 8 trucks for all carriers and owner-operators, the charging depot’s dual-cord CCS 360 kW charging stations are also open to other electric truck models.
While full charging currently takes approximately two to three hours, WattEV’s CEO, Salim Youssefzadeh, highlighted the ongoing development of megawatt charging to reduce this charging window significantly. This technology promises to increase charging efficiency and facilitate a seamless transition to battery-electric trucks.
WattEV’s Ambitious Growth Plans
Despite its considerable size, occupying only 1.5 acres, this depot is just the beginning. Three additional sites in San Bernardino, Gardena, and Bakersfield, California, are under construction and scheduled for completion by the year’s end. WattEV’s expansion plans also include venturing beyond California, with future sites planned in Arizona, New Mexico, and potentially the East Coast.
The Long Beach electric truck charging depot signifies a momentous step in the right direction for zero-emission trucking, as WattEV continues to drive innovation and collaboration to revolutionize the future of trucking in California and beyond.
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