The PGT innovation showcase featured the company's newest technology solutions, Locomation's AV system for two-truck convoys, and Nikola's developments for EV charging infrastructure.
On May 20, attendees heard from Locomation's co-founder and vice president of engineering, Michael George, who discussed freight optimization and technology implementation systems. Guests had a firsthand look at Locomation's Autonomous Relay Convoy (ARC) technology, which PGT will implement over the next eight years on over 30 separate Autonomous Relay Network segments across the country. The ARC technology allows one driver to operate a lead truck while another driver rests in a following truck that is autonomous.
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"PGT is listening to our customers. We know their pain points. And we are taking proactive measures to find innovative shipping solutions that address these issues," said Gregg Troian, PGT Trucking's president. "Through our investments in Locomation and Nikola, we will be able to move more freight in an efficient and environmentally friendly manner."
Nikola representatives Jill Guenther, the company's customer success manager, and Paul Clark, its head of sales and dealer operations, addressed the crowd on Nikola's battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), fuel-cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), and infrastructure solutions. Event participants were able to interact with the Nikola Tre BEV and Mobile Charging Trailer (MCT) and take part in a ride-along and equipment demonstrations. Last fall, PGT signed a letter of intent (LOI) to lease 100 Nikola Tre FCEVs, with a rollout beginning in 2023.
"We are proud to be part of PGT's commitment to find innovative solutions that reduce CO2 emissions and overall costs," said Michael Lohscheller, Nikola's president.
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"Advanced trucking technologies help PGT to better service our customers, support our drivers and ensure our employees can perform their jobs effectively," said Seth Stayer, PGT's manager of applied technology. "By implementing these new platforms, our staff can focus on the things that matter: building relationships, keeping trucks on the road and making our customers happy."
PGT's Future of Flatbed program focuses on reducing operating costs, fuel expenses and CO2 emissions, increasing capacity and utilization and creating more economical freight rates.
"Regardless of what the future may look like, whether hydrogen fueling, automation or driver assistance, PGT remains rooted in quality," added Andrew Erin, PGT's director of risk and safety and chairman of the Innovation Committee. "We are a company that focuses on delivering high-quality results through high-quality relationships."
