Fifteen Volvo VNR electric trucks to be deployed at the port of Los Angeles and Long Beach

Volvo Trucks North America customer Tradelink Transport, a minority-owned trucking company based in Compton, California, is advancing sustainable freight transportation by deploying 15 Volvo VNR Electric trucks for drayage operations at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. In addition to its battery-electric trucks, Tradelink operates a diverse fleet of 48 trucks that includes 21 compressed natural gas (CNG) trucks and 12 traditional diesel-powered trucks.

Tradelink’s battery-electric fleet primarily operates within a 100-mile radius, making runs to the Inland San Bernardino and Riverside areas in the mornings, followed by shorter local moves in the afternoons. The trucks operate five to six days a week, returning to base each evening to be charged overnight. Indeed, the logistics company sees views battery-electric trucks as a key tool for driver recruitment and retention.

Electric trucks like the Volvo VNR may attract younger drivers

“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, and we’ve seen strong enthusiasm from our team as they adapt to this new technology.”

“Over the last three years, we have gained valuable insights into deploying battery-electric trucks and the supporting charging infrastructure,” added Cea. “Having the right team makes all the difference, and 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.”