Hitachi and Penske launch large-scale electric truck charging pilot

Penske Truck Leasing, with Hitachi America and Hitachi Energy, launched a large-scale, centralized electric truck charging solution. This project supports Penske’s electric truck deployments for its customers in the Stockton, California, area. 

Hitachi Energy has supplied Penske with its Grid-eMotion Fleet EV charging system for this initiative. The integrated direct current fast-charging solution is designed to scale up and deliver multi-megawatt level charging capabilities tailored to meet the requirements of fleets of varying sizes.

A feature of the new system is that it can reduce space requirements by up to 60% compared to conventional charging systems. Additionally, it cuts cabling needs by up to 40%, ensuring effective resource use while maintaining high-capacity charging for electric vehicles.

“Investing in our capabilities with electric vehicles and charging solutions is crucial as our customers seek to decarbonize their fleets and comply with emissions regulations,” said Art Vallely, president of Penske Truck Leasing. “Robust public and private charging infrastructures are essential to ensure the viability of commercial electric trucks in the future.”

See also: Penske Truck Leasing opens new facility in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Hitachi Energy’s Grid-eMotion Fleet charging system in Stockton is already being used to charge a growing number of EVs across light-, medium-, and heavy-duty applications. Its 10-pedestal system can charge 10 trucks on-site up to 100kW or five trucks up to 200kW.

“We’re excited to be working with Hitachi on deployment of this cutting-edge technology,” said Drew Cullen, senior VP of fuels and facility services at Penske. “When we were first introduced to the Grid-eMotion solution, we were impressed with its capability and flexibility and what that could mean for our customers. This installation in Stockton will provide ‘real world’ experience and significantly enhance our collaboration with Hitachi.”

Hitachi and Penske are also exploring AI-based charging solutions to optimize vehicle charging processes. This endeavor unlocks fresh prospects and will lay the groundwork for enhanced service, maintenance, and EV charging opportunities throughout Penske’s fleet.

“Hitachi Energy is proud to support Penske’s sustainability journey with the deployment of our Grid-eMotion Fleet system in Stockton. This project presents an ideal opportunity to highlight the benefits of charging systems designed specifically for fleets and how they can support the transition to a more sustainable mode of operations,” said Alireza Aram, GM of Hitachi Energy’s Grid Integration Business in North America. “Hitachi Energy’s Grid-eMotion Fleet technology can provide fleet operators with the flexibility they need to address the unique requirements of each facility.”