MINNEAPOLIS — Veteran trucker Mike Faricy, familiar with nearly every aspect of the freight industry, has embarked on a groundbreaking journey with Murphy Logistics by taking the helm of an electric semi-truck as part of an innovative test program.
Manufactured by Volvo, this pioneering electric semi boasts a range of up to 275 miles per charge, powered by six cutting-edge batteries.
“Our goal is to confirm the feasibility of these electric trucks for mainstream freight operations,” explained Jian Li.
The trial, spanning both the challenging climates of Minnesota and Texas, aims to refine the technology. The focus is on assessing how these electric vehicles perform under the rigors of extreme weather conditions.
Since their introduction in 2020, over 1,000 of these electric semis have been deployed across North America, according to Li.
The successful integration of this technology could significantly impact the industry.
A 2019 Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) report highlighted that medium and heavy-duty vehicles accounted for over 455 million metric tons of CO2 emissions, representing roughly a quarter of the total emissions from the United States transportation sector, the largest source of greenhouse gases in the nation.
Additionally, conventional trucks contribute to air pollution that affects health and air quality, particularly in vulnerable communities.
Faricy views the shift towards electric trucks as an inevitable progression.
“The adoption of electric vehicles is crucial for our industry’s future, especially if we can achieve cost-effective production,” Faricy remarked.
One of the primary hurdles in adopting electric freight vehicles is the development of a reliable charging infrastructure. “It’s essential for fleet companies like Murphy to have confidence in their ability to reach their destinations,” stated Will Northrop, a mechanical engineering professor at the University of Minnesota.
Currently, Murphy Logistics operates a potent charger on its premises and another in Waseca to support its operational routes.
Northrop’s team is at the forefront of creating sophisticated energy management software to aid companies in optimizing routes and conserving energy, enabling trucks to travel longer distances.
“Our software aims to precisely calculate the necessary charge for completing routes, minimizing charging time,” Northrop added.
The impact of cargo weight on the range of electric trucks presents a unique challenge, affecting the daily operational distance capabilities for drivers like Faricy.
Recently, Faricy managed to complete 178 miles over three trips without pushing the vehicle’s maximum range limit. While the trucks are currently restricted to metro area deliveries, there is optimism about overcoming these challenges in the future.
“This is the direction we’re headed. We just need to work through some initial obstacles,” Faricy concluded.
The Minnesota Department of Transportation’s recent initiative to join forces with other Midwestern states in seeking $40 million from the EPA for an electric truck charging network underscores the regional commitment to sustainable freight solutions.
