Honda’s Alabama assembly plant has begun utilizing the all-electric Peterbilt 579EV semi truck as part of a pilot program aimed at advancing the electrification of transport. The electric truck, which is being used to transport newly-built Honda vehicles to a nearby railhead for shipment, is part of a collaboration between Honda, Alabama Power, Virginia Transportation Corp., and other key stakeholders, including the Alabama Clean Fuels Coalition and Peterbilt.
Leo Doire, CEO of Virginia Transportation Corp., emphasized the importance of testing the new Peterbilt 579EV under the demanding conditions of short-haul and drayage applications. “Our new Peterbilt 579EV model will be tested to determine how well it performs against the high productivity demands of our operations. The partners we have at the table will help us maximize this opportunity and prepare to scale up if we get the results we are hoping for,” Doire said.
The Peterbilt 579EV is equipped with PACCAR’s 400 kWh battery and a 670-hp electric motor, which delivers a peak torque of 2,050 lb-ft at 0 rpm, making it well-suited for the plant’s needs. With an operating range of 150 miles per charge, the truck is capable of being fully recharged in approximately three hours using a 120 kW charger, which was partially funded by Alabama Power’s “Make Ready” program.
The electric semi truck is a key part of Honda’s ongoing decarbonization initiative, which began in 2011. This program has already helped Virginia Transport Corp. reduce diesel consumption by over 475,000 gallons in 2023 alone, further supporting Honda’s commitment to sustainable practices at its Alabama manufacturing site.
