Autocar has delivered its first electric vehicle with technology it developed in Alabama, a signal that the manufacturer of specialized trucks sees a future in EVs.

Autocar’s first battery-electric terminal tractor, the E-ACTT, went to Old Dominion Freight Line for use at its Rialto, California, facility.

Autocar produces specialized severe-duty vocational vehicles for a wide range of industrial applications.

“We are excited to deliver our first production unit of the E-ACTT and begin operator orientation with Old Dominion Freight Line team members on Autocar’s first electric truck,” said Mark Aubry, president, terminal tractor division at Autocar. “Our engineers and technicians have designed and built a terminal tractor that offers the same reliability and durability as its diesel counterpart, without a carbon footprint. We are excited to see it in use. We hope this delivery is the first of many to the company.”

Autocar produced the first battery-electric terminal tractor for Old Dominion Freight Line. (contributed)

Regulatory mandates for many truck operators, municipalities and companies seek to reduce emissions on larger vehicles. As EV technology becomes more viable, Autocar is looking to increase production of EVs and other technologies, such as compressed natural gas, Aubry said.

Old Dominion Freight Line’s fleet includes more than 52,000 tractors and trailers for cargo transportation.

“Old Dominion is looking into the future of electrification in our fleet and understanding the benefits of a battery-powered switcher,” said Jim Raynor, vice president of equipment and maintenance for Old Dominion Freight Line. “We’re excited to test the performance of the E-ACTT in our daily LTL (less-than-truckload) operations at our Rialto, California, service center. We appreciate Autocar’s partnership, and we’re honored to take delivery of their first E-ACTT.”

Autocar developed its electric terminal tractor technology with multiple partners, including Alabama Power, through testing at the Port of Mobile. In addition to the environmental benefits, the E-ACTTs are expected to have lower maintenance costs and obvious fuel savings.

The E-ACTT is equipped with a 210-kWh modular battery pack that can last up to 22 hours on a single, full charge. The E-ACTT uses the industry standard CCS-1 compliant DC fast-charging with charging up to 150 kW. To help sustain long-lasting battery life, Autocar utilizes liquid cooled/heated batteries. The E-ACTT can communicate maintenance and repair needs to the fleet to help improve efficiency and uptime. Autocar representatives will provide onsite orientation in California to help Old Dominion Freight Line operators understand and adjust to the electric terminal tractor’s features.

Autocar’s Alabama plant is in Pinson Valley and within both the Birmingham and Center Point city limits. It also operates a production plant in Hagerstown, Indiana.