Findlay firms study electric trucks

One Energy Enterprises and Ohio Logistics, both based in Findlay, have joined forces to explore commercial-ready electric semi-truck technologies. One Energy is an industrial power solutions company and Ohio Logistics is a warehousing, distribution, and transportation services provider. In recent weeks, the two companies have been testing an electric shuttle-truck and an electric semi-truck to gain insights into how different electric trucks compare with diesel counterparts in performance and efficiency in a range of logistics roles. "Through these trials, our understanding of electric truck operations has expanded considerably. We are dedicated to ensuring our clientele is informed about the opportunities electric semis present," the companies said in a joint statement. "Currently, our focus is on learning and preparing for the trucking industry's imminent transition to a more sustainable future." One Energy supported the testing through the installation of charging infrastructure and equipment, and it is providing the power required for the tests. The vehicles currently under trial include a heavy-duty yard truck, designed for short-distance yard service and a semi designed for medium-range service. Access to the trucks was made available with the support of Penske. Both models are being charged on One Energy's corporate campus in Findlay. An Orange EV e-TRIEVER travels locally between Ohio Logistics' distribution centers in Findlay and is being charged using a specialized 22KW charger that is exclusive to its model. In contrast, an eCascadia is being charged with an ABB Terra 180KW charger and has been driven on local and regional routes, traveling as far as 100 miles to destinations like Columbus. To encourage broader trials of electric semis, One Energy is building a permanent semi charging station that will be fitted with multiple chargers, allowing for the testing of a wide range of electric truck models. This initiative will ensure that Ohio Logistics and other regional firms will be able to evaluate electric semis without the usual upfront and ongoing power challenges. Ohio Logistics plans to explore additional emerging electric fleet technologies as they consider the integration of electric trucks into their operations. "The trucking industry is evolving, and Ohio Logistics is excited to be at the forefront of the electrification trend," said Chuck Bills, chief executive officer of Ohio Logistics. "Through these trials, our understanding of electric truck operations has expanded considerably. We are dedicated to ensuring our clientele is informed about the myriad opportunities electric semis present. Currently, our focus is on learning and preparing for the trucking industry's imminent transition to a more sustainable future." One Energy and Ohio Logistics have a shared vision to make the region a leader in electric trucking as the technologies prove themselves in the market. Both companies aim to engage other regional businesses in these trials, having recently held a joint open house to share their accrued knowledge and findings with regional peers. "Electric trucks and their charging requirements are really uncharted territory," said Jereme Kent, chief executive officer of One Energy. "While these trucks have immense potential to change the logistics industry, their tremendous power needs are widely under-appreciated and often surpass the capacity of many distribution centers and factories. That is going to lead to opportunities for new partnerships and ways of operating. We hope that the ready-to-use power infrastructure at our Megawatt Hubs can bridge the power gap for the logistics industry and accelerate the transition to large electric fleets. "