Electrifying the Future: D-B Cartage's Green Freight Promise

A significant transformation is underway as the freight industry embraces greener practices, and it's only accelerating from here. Electric trucks have been shown to emit 63% less greenhouse gases (GHG) over their lifetime (from production to recycling) compared to diesel trucks, according to the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT)​. The ultimate goal for many in the industry, like D-B Cartage, is to achieve net zero emissions. This means completely eliminating or offsetting all greenhouse gas emissions to reach a balance where no additional emissions are added to the atmosphere. This shift is crucial in reducing carbon footprints, contributing to cleaner air, quieter cities, and enhanced public health.

D-B Cartage Leading the Charge

D-B Cartage is a company that is leading the way into this new era of freight delivery. D-B Cartage is not merely joining the electric vehicle trend; they are pioneering it. As one of the first United States Postal Service (U.S.P.S) contractors to roll out electric trucks, they're proving that you can haul a heavy load without the heavy carbon footprint.

The Freightliner eM2 medium-duty trucks used by D-B Cartage have several features and capabilities that make them stand out in the industry. Here are some key highlights:

1. Extended Range and Fast Charging: The eM2 offers a range of up to 230 miles on a single charge, and supports DC fast charging, which can recharge the battery to 80% capacity in approximately 60-90 minutes, ensuring minimal downtime.
2. High Payload Capacity: Despite being an electric vehicle, the eM2 provides competitive payload capacities, suitable for various medium-duty applications, ensuring it meets the demands of freight operations.
3. Zero Emissions and Lower Operating Costs: The eM2 produces zero tailpipe emissions, contributing to improved air quality. Additionally, it has lower operating costs due to reduced fuel expenses, fewer moving parts, and lower maintenance requirements.

Why is this a big deal?

Traditional diesel trucks are the heavyweight champions of pollution, belching out tons of nasty emissions. Something that President Joe Biden wants to get rid of with the help of his Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, which was signed in November 2021. Diesel engines are notoriously inefficient, with only about 20% of the energy from fuel being used to move the vehicle, while the rest is wasted as heat​.  In contrast, electric trucks use energy much more efficiently, with up to 87-91% of the energy from their batteries going directly to powering the vehicle. 

With their cutting-edge electric tech, D-B Cartage is flipping the script on pollution. They are embracing innovations that boost efficiency and slash emissions, making our roads cleaner and quieter.

Innovative Technology Behind Electric Trucks

Now, you might be wondering, what kind of tech are we talking about here? Think advanced batteries that can charge quickly and hold their charge for longer periods, meaning the trucks spend less time at charging stations and more time on the road. And high-powered charging stations that are designed to recharge the trucks rapidly, ensuring minimal downtime. It’s a technological revolution that combines smart engineering with powerful performance to create trucks that are both efficient and eco-friendly.

Are you ready to explore how these innovations are transforming the industry? We’ll look at how giants like Sysco and Schneider are already reaping the benefits of electric trucks, and how D-B Cartage is doing its part to leave its mark with their innovative fleets.

Biden’s Infrastructure Bill in Action

Joe Biden's Infrastructure Bill aims to incorporate green technology into the transportation sector, hastening adoption standards. This initiative is expected to contribute to a projected 40% reduction in grid emissions by 2050, making electric trucks even more beneficial for the environment​. 

D-B Cartage's adoption of electric trucks will have a notably positive impact on the environment. Here’s how:

• Reduction of the Carbon Footprint: Replacing traditional diesel-powered trucks with electric ones, D-B Cartage has significantly reduced its carbon footprint. Electric trucks produce zero emissions, which directly translates to lower levels of harmful pollutants such as nitrogen oxides. This reduction in emissions contributes to improved air quality, particularly in urban areas where delivery trucks frequently operate, leading to better public health outcomes. 
• Noise Reduction: Significantly less sound emission thanks to fewer moving parts, unlike diesel-powered trucks.
• Low-Cost Maintenance: Electricity as a fuel is generally cheaper than gasoline or diesel on a per-mile basis​. Which in turn could lead to reduced transportation cost, faster delivery times ( thanks to fewer breakdowns), swift service (delays during transport are far and few between) and satisfied clients. 

D-B Cartage's contract with the U.S.P.S proves this by enhancing their service capabilities while demonstrating the scalability and reliability of their electric trucks. This partnership underscores the potential for electric trucks to meet the rigorous demands of large-scale delivery services, further contributing to national sustainability goals and setting an example for other businesses to follow. 

How Industry Giants Are Taking Charge

To prove a point about the revolution of the electric movement, here are some examples of other companies that are benefiting from using electric trucks. 

• Sysco: Sysco has already added 120 electric trucks to their fleet, with the intent to add hundreds more. “Our actual stated public goal is to electrify 35% of our US broad line fleet,” said Marie Robinson, chief supply chain officer, Sysco Corp. “So [the real number is] more like 2,500 electric trucks by 2030.” 
• Schneider: Schneider, as of Q1 2024, their nearly 100 electric trucks have collectively driven over 1.5 million miles without emission, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by roughly 5 million pounds. The benefits Schneider have experienced so far not only includes significant environmental impact but also operational advantages. Their drivers have reported positive experiences, citing improved ride quality, reduced engine noise, and ease of steering compared to traditional diesel trucks. “Once you drive an electric truck, you won’t want to go back to a diesel truck,” said Schneider driver Marty Boots. 

With high-profile companies like Frito-Lay and PepsiCo seeking to produce zero emissions by 2040, there is a high demand for electric trucks to hit the road to get this journey started. And with the backing of President Biden and his department, the time is now to ride the wave of the electric movement.

The Vision and Commitment of D-B Cartage

The vision at D-B Cartage is to pave the highways of tomorrow with innovation, sustainability, and unwavering dedication, redefining the essence of transportation. 

Since 1989, the contract with the U.S.P.S has testified to the company's standards and drive to work with diligence and integrity. D-B views each task as an opportunity to showcase their dedication. Their mission is not only to be the best in the industry but to exceed that standard. While many see the sky as the limit, D-B Cartage views it as a starting point for growth, learning, development, and further innovation.

For D-B Cartage, it is their privilege to operate within the great nation of the United States, contributing to its thriving rather than mere survival. This commitment is exemplified by the use of electric trucks, which protect the environment by eliminating harmful emissions, thus providing critical aid to the health and safety of the United States and its people, while still delivering first-class service without diesel-powered vehicles.

In conclusion, D-B Cartage’s mission is to serve and pioneer the evolution of transportation. Freight Caviar sees this vision. The U.S.P.S sees this vision. Previous and current clients are in awe of this vision, and the staff at D-B Cartage is ready to share their passion, energy, drive, dedication, and, most importantly, electric trucks with the public. The call is to go green and save the great nation that is the United States. D-B Cartage serves those who serve, delivers to America, and stands ready to serve all.