A Statewide Effort to Drive Less

Organized by CTrides, the commuter services program of CTDOT, the campaign encouraged residents to reduce car usage between April 22 and May 31. Participants were inspired to explore alternative travel options that are more sustainable and cost-effective, such as biking, carpooling, or taking public transit. According to CTDOT, participants collectively saved over $380,000 in fuel and vehicle maintenance costs thanks to their efforts.

Key Achievements in the 2025 Drive Less Connecticut Challenge:

• Record-breaking participation: More than 1,000 residents and employees recorded at least one alternative travel trip.
• Reduced vehicle mileage: A total of 35,000 trips were logged, saving an estimated 548,080 car miles. Sustainable modes of transportation included Connecticut’s trains, buses, carpooling, biking, and walking.
• Employer involvement: Connecticut employers actively participated by hosting events to promote commuting alternatives, such as teleworking, public transit, and cycling.
• Environmental impact: Meeting the campaign’s trip reduction goal of 35,000 trips enabled the planting of 2,000 trees in partnership with One Tree Planted.

“This year’s Drive Less Connecticut Challenge showed remarkable community engagement and enthusiasm,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “Participants demonstrated a tremendous commitment to this challenge by exploring different travel options and reducing traffic congestion across Connecticut.”

A Coordinated Community Effort

The challenge gained momentum through CTDOT’s CTrides program, which executed a robust marketing plan leveraging social media, paid advertisements, and direct community outreach. Participants tracked their travel habits using the CTrides app and website, which also allowed them to enter prize drawings for gift cards and other incentives. Additionally, weekly updates personalized participants’ progress and maintained excitement throughout the event. All prizes were sponsored and distributed by Agile Mile.

By inspiring state-wide participation, the 2025 Drive Less Connecticut Challenge not only demonstrated a collective effort to ease traffic congestion but also established a model for sustainable commuting initiatives moving forward.

Image & Source: The Trucker

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Leading the Way to a Sustainable Future

Based in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Schneider has secured its position as an environmental pioneer, becoming the first major transportation company to achieve six million zero-emission miles. This milestone highlights Schneider’s dedication to sustainability, innovation, and industry leadership.

“Reaching six million zero-emission miles is a testament to our steadfast dedication to sustainability and innovation,” stated Mark Rourke, Schneider’s president and CEO. “Leading the way in adopting electric vehicle technology not only benefits the environment but also serves as an example of the broad service capabilities and flexibility we can offer to customers.”

This accomplishment has prevented over 20 million pounds of carbon dioxide (CO2) from being released into the environment—the equivalent of removing approximately 2,100 gas-powered vehicles from the road for an entire year.

A Record-Setting BEV Fleet

Today, Schneider operates one of the largest battery-electric vehicle (BEV) fleets in North America, with around 100 Freightliner eCascadias supplied by Daimler Truck North America (DTNA). Charging infrastructure at Schneider’s Southern California Operations Center includes 16 dual-corded 350 kW chargers, capable of simultaneously powering up to 32 trucks.

“Schneider is a great example of the kind of forward-thinking entrepreneurship our industry needs,” said David Carson, senior vice president, sales and marketing at DTNA. “They’ve achieved over 6 million zero emission miles, which is a reminder for us all to keep working on overcoming challenges together on the path to zero emissions. At DTNA, we’re committed to the shift to zero emissions, alongside pioneers like Schneider, who are showing us what’s possible.”

Supporting Businesses in Sustainability Goals

Schneider’s electric fleet enables customers to meet their sustainability objectives. This was evident in 2023 when Schneider became the first carrier to complete global zero-emission shipments for PepsiCo. During this partnership, over 31,000 zero-emission miles were logged within months.

“PepsiCo is proud to celebrate this milestone driven by Schneider in California,” said David Allen, VP and chief sustainability officer at PepsiCo Foods North America. “Together, we’ve demonstrated how cross-industry partnerships can reduce emissions and create a healthier, cleaner environment.”

Enhancing Driver Experience

Schneider’s drivers have also embraced the advantages of electric vehicles. Thanks to quieter operation and smoother performance, BEVs are transforming the day-to-day lives of long-haul drivers.

“Once you drive an electric truck, you won’t want to go back to a diesel truck. The ride quality and the quietness make a huge difference in our daily operations,” shared Marty Boots, a seasoned Schneider driver.

Improving Air Quality for Southern California

Schneider’s BEV operations are centered in Southern California—a region with critical air quality challenges. This aligns with sustainability objectives set by initiatives like the California Air Resources Board and the Joint Electric Truck Scaling Initiative (JETSI). Funding from JETSI, the U.S. EPA, and the Volkswagen Environmental Mitigation Trust has played a role in expanding Schneider’s electric fleet.

“Achieving six million zero emission miles is more than a milestone — it’s a clear demonstration of how innovation in transportation can lead to cleaner, healthier air for our communities,” said Wayne Nastri, South Coast AQMD’s executive officer. “By embracing battery electric vehicles, Schneider is setting a great example for the industry while directly contributing to improved air quality and public health in regions like Southern California.”

Expanding Beyond Electric

Schneider isn’t stopping with BEVs. The company is actively exploring other eco-friendly alternatives like renewable natural gas and hydrogen-powered engines. Their current fleet of non-electric tractors runs entirely on biodiesel blends, underscoring their comprehensive commitment to a greener transportation future. Schneider has also set ambitious goals, striving to reduce its CO2 emissions per mile by 60% by 2035.

Redefining Sustainable Logistics

The achievement of six million zero-emission miles underscores Schneider’s leadership role in sustainable logistics. This milestone fosters benefits across the board—from reducing environmental impact to enhancing driver satisfaction and empowering clients to meet their green goals.

For more details on how Schneider is transforming the future of transport, check out their Sustainability Page here.

Source: The Trucker

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