Powering America’s Commercial Transportation (PACT) and the Edison Electric Institute (EEI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to support the deployment of charging infrastructure for medium- and heavy-duty zero-emission vehicles (MHDVs).
The collaboration will focus on grid readiness and sharing best practices for efficient and cost-effective infrastructure development. This initiative aligns with the National Zero-Emission Freight Corridor Strategy, aimed at promoting the adoption of electric commercial vehicles.
The partnership is intended to enhance grid readiness across various regions, helping truck manufacturers and fleet operators meet federal and state zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) requirements. PACT and EEI will work together to address MHDV charging demand, streamline energization processes, and reduce costs and timelines associated with infrastructure deployment.
Aravind Kailas, Advanced Technology Policy Director at Volvo Group North America and a founding member of PACT, commented, “The collaboration with the Edison Electric Institute marks an important step toward facilitating the transition to zero-emission vehicles.” He noted the importance of cooperation between stakeholders, including vehicle manufacturers and charging infrastructure developers.
Phil Dion, Senior Vice President of Customer Solutions at EEI, added, “Medium- and heavy-duty truck fleets present a new customer segment for electric companies, and this partnership with PACT is designed to ensure their integration with the energy grid is both efficient and cost-effective.” He emphasized the need for industry collaboration to support the future demands of electric vehicle infrastructure.
In addition, PACT has joined forces with other organizations, including the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), to support policies aimed at expanding the electric grid. Max Baumhefner, Director of EV Infrastructure at NRDC, noted, “We are pleased to see various stakeholders come together to develop the infrastructure needed to meet environmental goals.”
