Truck Tech

Truck Tech

By Alan Adler, FreightWavesNewsTechnologyBusiness NewsTech News
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Truck Tech episodes

  • Unpacking Autonomous Vehicle Regulations: What Fleets & Tech Companies Need to Know

    Join Thomas Wasson on this episode of Truck Tech as he delves into the complex world of emerging autonomous vehicle (AV) regulations with expert Adam Raviv. Adam, Global Co-Chair of Sidley's Automotive and Mobility Practice and former Chief Counsel at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), provides unparalleled insights into the current regulatory landscape for autonomous trucks and robotaxis.

    Discover why there's a "Wild West" of state and local rules, the implications of existing federal motor vehicle safety standards, and the critical role of safety cases in AV development. Adam breaks down how agencies like NHTSA and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) interact, creating a multi-headed regulatory challenge for companies.
    Learn about:

    • The current state of federal AV regulations and the voluntary AV STEP program.
    • Why companies are building redundant safety systems and conducting extensive third-party validations.
    • The stark differences and unique challenges in deploying autonomous trucks versus robotaxis.
    • The intense public scrutiny and viral potential of AV incidents, and how it shapes industry behavior.

      • This is a must-watch for anyone in the trucking industry, autonomous technology sector, or simply interested in the future of transportation and its legal framework.
      #TruckTech #AutonomousVehicles #AVRegulation #SelfDrivingTrucks #Robotaxis #NHTSA #FMCSA #AutonomousDriving #TruckingIndustry #FutureOfFreight #LegalFramework #SafetyCase #AVSTEP #SidleyAustin #Mobility #CleanTransportation #Innovation #TransportationPolicy #RegulatoryAffairs #AutonomousTech

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      33 min
    • Beyond the Battery Cell: Unpacking Commercial EV Battery Tech with Proterra

      Welcome to a special episode of Truck Tech where Thomas Wasson dives deep into the world of commercial vehicle batteries with Mabel Feng, Director of Product Management at Proterra.

      Ever wondered what really goes into powering heavy-duty electric trucks and buses? Mabel breaks down the complex science and engineering behind these crucial components. We discuss:

      • Battery Chemistry Explained: From lithium-ion to the latest periodic table elements, learn how different chemistries impact performance, lifespan, and safety for demanding applications.
      • Beyond the "Cookie": Understand how individual battery cells are assembled into modules and packs, and the meticulous considerations for designing commercial-grade battery solutions.
      • The "Juice Tanker" Concept: Explore the fascinating trend of mobile battery storage and transfer, and how it could revolutionize charging infrastructure for fleets.
      • Charging Standards & Future-Proofing: Get insights into current charging capabilities (250kW, 350kW, Megawatt Charging System - MCS) and the potential for advanced solutions like inductive charging at bus stops.
      • Fleet Adoption Trends: Despite regulatory shifts, why are fleets continuing their long-term commitment to electrification? Discover the "tortoise and hare" pace of adoption driven by total cost of ownership (TCO) and strategic planning.
      • "Green Shoots" in Commercial EV: Where are the most promising areas for EV adoption in the heavy-duty sector? Mabel identifies key segments for fleets looking to make the leap into electrification.

        Whether you're a fleet manager, an industry enthusiast, or just curious about the future of transportation, this episode offers invaluable insights into the heart of electric commercial vehicles.

        #TruckTech #Proterra #EVBatteries #CommercialEV #BatteryTechnology #ElectricTrucks #ElectricBuses #FleetElectrification #HeavyDutyEV #BatteryScience #ChargingInfrastructure #MegawattCharging #InductiveCharging #CleanTransportation #SustainableFleets #ACTExpo #FutureOfTrucking #ZeroEmission #EVAdoption #TruckingIndustry

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        30 min
      • The Electric Trailer Revolution! Range Energy's E-Axle Tech & Smart Reefer Power

        Get ready for a game-changing episode of Truck Tech! Thomas Wasson sits down with Ali Javidan, Founder & CTO of Range Energy, to reveal groundbreaking electrification technology that's not focused on the tractor.

        Range Energy is putting the trailer to work with an innovative e-axle and battery system that promises to revolutionize fuel efficiency, safety, and operational transparency for fleets.

        In this deep dive, learn about:

        • The "Ignored" Trailer: Why focusing on the trailer, not just the tractor, is key to decarbonizing commercial transportation.
        • E-Axle Innovation: How a drive motor and battery pack on the trailer can reduce fuel consumption (up to 70%!), provide regenerative braking, and integrate seamlessly with any tractor.
        • Smart Braking & Stability: Witness incredible safety improvements with faster reaction times than traditional ABS, significantly reducing stopping distances and preventing jackknifing, even on ice!
        • Reefer Electrification: Discover how Range Energy's system can power refrigeration units, eliminating the need for diesel gensets and capturing enough regenerative energy to run reefers for an entire shift.
        • Operational Simplicity: Learn why Range Energy's system requires zero modifications to the tractor, using standard air and light connections, and how it can be easily bolted onto existing trailers.
        • Future Applications: Explore the potential for powering auxiliary components, APUs, and even defense applications.

          Ali, with his extensive background from Tesla, Google, and Zoox, shares the vision behind Range Energy and how they're empowering fleets to achieve significant decarbonization without major operational disruptions.

          Don't miss this look at the smart, sustainable future of trucking!

          #TruckTech #RangeEnergy #ElectricTrailer #EAxle #FleetElectrification #EVTrucking #ReeferTrailer #RegenerativeBraking #SmartTrailer #CommercialTrucking #SupplyChain #Logistics #Decarbonization #CleanTransportation #ACTExpo #FutureOfTrucking #Innovation #TruckingIndustry #Freight #ColdChain #SustainableLogistics

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          27 min
        • Inside Future Trucking: EV Charging Hubs & Volvo's Autonomous + Low NOx Engines! | ACT Expo 2025

          Thomas Wasson brings you another special edition of Truck Tech from the ACT Expo! This episode offers a comprehensive look at the advancements in fleet electrification and autonomous trucking.

          First, join us at the Greenlane booth with CEO Patrick Macdonald-King. Discover how their new flagship charging facility in Colton, CA, is supporting major fleets like Convoy and Iron Ride. Learn about:

          • Greenlane's expansive public charging network vision for EV and hydrogen.

          • The latest in charging technology, including 400 kW chargers and future-proofing for megawatt charging.

          • The benefits of integrated apps (like with Volvo) for seamless charging experiences.

          • Greenlane's approach to amenities and services at charging hubs.

          • The strategic partnerships and optimistic outlook for continued EV adoption despite regulatory shifts.

            Next, we shift gears to Volvo Trucks North America with insights into their innovative powertrain and autonomous solutions. Hear from Product Marketing Manager Duane Tegels regarding:

            • The D13 Turbo Compounding engine, a fuel-efficiency staple for long-haul applications.

            • How Volvo optimizes its proprietary engine, transmission, and chassis for maximum performance.

            • Real-world fuel economy figures and the "down speeding" technology for efficiency.

              Then, Johan Agebrand, Director of Product Marketing, discusses Volvo's commitment to low NOx engines and regulatory compliance:

              • The advanced after-treatment system designed to meet strict California Air Resources Board (CARB) omnibus regulations.

              • How heated SCR systems significantly reduce NOx emissions during critical cold starts and warm-ups.

              • Volvo's long-term strategy for emission reduction, looking ahead to EPA 2027 standards.

                Finally, James Davis, Sales Manager for Volvo Autonomous Solutions, provides details on the Volvo VNL autonomous truck powered by the Aurora driver:

                • The ground-up design with redundant safety systems for autonomous operations.

                • Volvo's "transportation as a service" model, taking on the risk of autonomous fleet ownership.

                • The current pilot operations with DHL and Uber freight between Dallas and Houston.

                • The pathway to "driver-out" operations and the significant efficiency gains expected in long-haul routes.

                  This episode is a must-watch for anyone tracking the exciting innovations in the commercial vehicle sector!

                  #TruckTech #ACTExpo #EVCharging #ElectricTrucks #Greenlane #VolvoTrucks #AutonomousTrucking #LowNOxEngine #CARB #EPA2027 #FleetManagement #Logistics #SustainableTransportation #CleanEnergy #FutureOfFreight #HeavyDutyTrucks #AuroraDriver #TransportationAsAService #InnovationInTrucking #SupplyChain

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                  36 min
                • Autonomous EV Terminal Tractors & Smart Fleet Management! | Truck Tech at ACT Expo

                  Get ready for an in-depth look at the cutting edge of logistics with Thomas Wasson from ACT Expo! This episode of Truck Tech features a dual dive into the future of fleet operations.

                  First, we sit down with Daniel Hilson, CEO and Founder of BetterFleet, to discuss how their innovative software is helping municipalities like the Metropolitan Water District strategically electrify their fleets.

                  Learn about:
                  1. The “digital twin” technology optimizing routes and vehicle utilization.
                  2. Phased approaches to EV adoption for cost-effectiveness.
                  3. Global trends in clean fleet mandates and what sets California apart.
                  4. The critical importance of data in making smart electrification decisions.

                  Then, we jump into the yard with Kalmar and Product Manager Ryan Sipple to unveil their groundbreaking autonomous electric terminal tractor, the Ottawa Auto-PT!

                  Discover:
                  1. How Kalmar Ottawa partnered with Forterra for the advanced autonomous drive software.
                  2. The robust sensor suite and redundancy features enabling “driver-out” operations in pilots.
                  3. The unique challenges and solutions for autonomous backing in a busy yard environment.
                  4. The evolution of Kalmar’s EV terminal tractor, now in its third generation, offering up to 20 hours of operation with opportunity charging.
                  5. Insights into future developments like inductive charging and optimized powertrain configurations.

                  This video is packed with essential information for anyone in fleet management, logistics, or interested in the future of sustainable and autonomous transportation!

                  #TruckTech #ACTExpo #EVTrucks #AutonomousVehicles #TerminalTractor #YardDog #FleetElectrification #BetterFleet #KalmarOttawa #Forterra #CleanLogistics #SustainableTransportation #ElectricTrucks #FutureOfFreight #SupplyChainInnovation #DigitalTwin #SmartFleet #GreenTech #AutonomousDriving #FreightTech #ElectricTerminalTractor#trucking #logistics #news

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                  30 min
                • Modular Charging & 10M+ EV Miles! | WattEV: Tesla Semi & 1.2MW Chargers

                  In this special episode of Truck Tech, Thomas Wasson hits the floor at ACT Expo to chat with Henrik Holland, Head of Prologis Mobility, about the cutting-edge future of EV charging. From modular “charger-in-a-box” skids to large-scale electrification projects with Maersk, Prologic is revolutionizing the intersection of real estate, infrastructure, and electric trucking.

                  Discover how they're solving the infrastructure problem with rapid-deploy charging islands, future-proofing for megawatt-level EVs, and already hitting over 10 million miles of electric fleet operations! 

                  Topics Covered:
                  Modular EV charging skids: prefab, powerful, and scalable
                  Strategic partnerships (like with Maersk) that go beyond demos
                  Behind-the-fence vs. public fleet charging
                  99%+ uptime goals and real-world fleet adoption
                  EV future-proofing with megawatt charging

                  Thomas Wasson interviews WattEV in front of a Tesla Semi at this year's ACT expo. WattEV isn’t just another electric trucking company — they’re leading a full-scale transformation of freight transport with the largest fleet of electric trucks, 1.2MW megawatt chargers, and solar-powered charging sites.

                  Learn how WattEV is solving the “chicken-and-egg” dilemma of EV infrastructure, scaling real-world solutions, and helping shippers and carriers hit sustainability goals at near-diesel costs. From 500-mile days on 300-mile trucks to regenerative braking and driver behavior analytics, this is the future of freight, now. Whether you're a fleet operator, logistics planner, or just an EV tech enthusiast—this is a must-watch! Watch now and ride the next wave in commercial EV infrastructure.

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                  #trucking #logistics #news #EVCharging #TruckTech #ACTExpo2025 #PrologisMobility #ElectricTrucks #FleetElectrification #ModularCharging #SustainableLogistics #Maersk #EVInfrastructure #MegawattCharging #GreenTech #FutureOfTrucking #EVFleet #CleanEnergy  #TeslaSemi #WattEV #ElectricTrucks #MegawattCharging #EVInfrastructure #CleanEnergy #SustainableFreight #EVFleet #TruckTech #ZeroEmissions #GreenLogistics #FutureOfTrucking #EVExpo2025 #SolarCharging

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                  30 min
                • Behind the Wheel of Tomorrow’s Trucks: Hexagon Agility & Kenworth Lead the Way

                  Welcome to a special edition of Truck Tech! Host Thomas Wasson dives deep into the cutting edge of commercial transportation at ACT Expo, talking with experts from Kenworth and Hexagon Agility about the future of zero-emission and alternative-fuel trucks.
                   Highlights from the episode:

                  • Kenworth’s major reveal: battery-electric T680 and vocational T880 platforms
                  • A deep dive into Hexagon Agility’s powerful X15N natural gas engine and what fleets are saying
                  • Real-world fuel economy improvements (10%+!) and scalability insights
                  • The growing infrastructure and viability of CNG/RNG across North America
                  • Practical insights on electrification challenges like parasitic loads, charging speeds, and more

                    • Whether you’re a fleet operator, engineer, or just a trucking tech enthusiast, this episode delivers everything you need to know about where the industry is headed.

                    Learn more: hexagonagility.com

                    Don’t forget to subscribe for more ACT Expo coverage and weekly Truck Tech insights: freightwaves.com/truck-tech

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                    29 min
                  • Inside the Future of EV Trucking | Exclusive Tour of Zeem Solutions' Mega Charging Hub near LAX!

                    Go behind the scenes at Zeem Solutions with Truck Tech's Thomas Wasson in this exclusive pre-ACT Expo episode!  Join us for a deep dive into one of the most advanced EV charging hubs in the U.S., located just outside LAX.

                    We sit down with Paul Goop, CEO of Zeem Solutions, to talk about:
                    The evolution of EV charging infrastructure 
                    Breaking the diesel parity barrier 
                    The power challenges of fleet electrification 
                    Tesla Semi integration at scale 
                    Zeem’s game-changing shared charging model 

                    With over 215,000 charging sessions completed and massive grid power allocations, Zeem is proving what's possible when innovation meets infrastructure. If you're into electric trucks, sustainable logistics, or clean tech, this is one episode you can't miss. 

                    Filmed on-site before ACT Expo 2025 — full of insights, future-proof strategies, and a look at some of the rarest EV fleet vehicles in North America.

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                    #EVtrucking #ElectricVehicles #ACTExpo2025 #TruckTech #ChargingInfrastructure #TeslaSemi #CleanEnergy #GreenLogistics #FleetElectrification #SustainableTransport #FutureOfTrucking #ZeroEmissions #SmartCharging #VolvoEV #NikolaTrucks #Zeemsolutions

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                    27 min
                  • No Driver? No Problem: Plus’s Vision for the Future of Freight

                    In this special Truck Tech episode from ACT Expo, FreightWaves’ Thomas Wasson sits down with Plus CEO & Co-founder Shawn Kerrigan to dive into the fast-moving world of autonomous trucking.
                    They cover Plus’s driverless truck milestone, global OEM partnerships with Hyundai, Scania, and International, and how data and AI are redefining the future of freight.
                    Learn how Plus is building a virtual driver, what the AV 2.0 shift means for the industry, and why 2025–2027 is shaping up to be the breakout window for commercial deployment.

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                    17 min

                  About Truck Tech

                  From the publisher's feed

                  Thomas Wasson discusses all things commercial trucking and technology.