Four trucks were included in the selection: the FH Aero Electric with extended range and the next-generation FH, FM and FMX Electric. The FH Aero Electric is rated for up to 435 miles on a charge, while the other three models are rated for up to 290 miles.

Longer Range Comes with the Latest Generation

The International Truck of the Year jury pointed to the increased range as well as the number of cab, chassis and application configurations available across the lineup. Volvo has developed the trucks for work that includes regional and long-haul routes, city distribution, construction and utility operations.

Along with the range improvements, the latest generation has increased payload capacity and shorter charging times compared with the previous models.

The award also continues a four-year run for battery-electric trucks. Volvo’s FH Electric won for 2024, followed by the Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 in 2025 and the DAF XD and XF Electric in 2026. Volvo accepted the 2027 award during IAA Transportation in Hanover, Germany.

Volvo’s Electric Program Is Already Operating in North America

The trucks receiving this year’s award are part of Volvo’s global lineup, but the company’s electric program also extends to equipment operating in the United States and Canada.

More than 750 Volvo VNR Electric trucks have entered service in North America since the model’s 2020 launch, logging nearly 37 million miles without tailpipe emissions. Volvo is also preparing the VNL Electric for the North American market after previewing the model in May. It is intended for regional haul, drayage, and city distribution applications.

Globally, Volvo says more than 7,000 of its electric trucks have traveled approximately 310 million miles since 2019. Nearly 2,000 customers in more than 50 countries currently operate the company’s battery-electric trucks.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: September 22, 2026

Source: ACT News

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The update is notable for the simulation community because the VNR Electric is the first battery-electric truck added to the game. The VNL, Volvo’s flagship long-haul tractor, also joins the game as part of the update from SCS Software.

American Truck Simulator allows players to haul freight, purchase equipment, manage expenses, and build a virtual trucking business across U.S. routes. According to Volvo, the game has sold more than seven million copies worldwide.

“This is a very exciting way to introduce our trucks, both the diesel and the battery-electric version, to millions of truck enthusiasts around the world,” said Peter Voorhoeve, president of Volvo Trucks North America. “American Truck Simulator has built an incredibly passionate community that appreciates great trucks and authentic driving experiences.”

Volvo said the in-game VNL was developed with input from its design and engineering teams so the truck’s appearance, sound and driver environment would reflect the production model.

“As designers, we obsess over every detail of the driver experience, from the way the truck looks and feels to the sounds drivers hear every day on the road,” said Brian Balicki, head of design for Volvo Trucks North America. “Together with the SCS Software team, we translated that experience into the virtual world with an exceptional level of authenticity.”

The addition of the VNR Electric also gives players a look at a truck designed for regional haul and urban freight operations. Volvo introduced the VNR Electric in the U.S. and Canada in 2020. The company said more than 750 units are now operating across the region, with more than 30 million miles logged.

The Volvo VNL and Volvo VNR Electric are available now through a free American Truck Simulator update here.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: July 13, 2026

Source: The Trucker

Image Source: Volvo

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According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a total of 462 trucks from Orange EV are impacted.

What Units Are Affected

The recall covers several models commonly used in yard operations:

• 2022 to 2023 T Series Pure Electric Terminal Trucks
• 2023 to 2025 e TRIEVER models
• 2023 to 2026 HUSK e terminal trucks

These trucks are widely used for moving trailers in tight yard environments, where reliability and safety are critical for both drivers and ground personnel.

What the Issue Is

The concern centers around the optional foldaway training seat. In certain conditions, the seat may fail.

Because of that, the affected trucks do not meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard requirements for seating systems and seat belt anchorages. That creates a potential safety risk anytime the training seat is in use.

What Drivers and Fleets Should Do Now

Until a fix is available, owners are being told to limit use of the training seat.

For drivers and yard operators, this is a reminder to double-check equipment before use, especially when training or running with a second person in the cab. Fleets may also want to review internal safety procedures to make sure teams are aware of the issue.

What Happens Next

A repair solution is still being developed. In the meantime:

• Interim notification letters are expected to be mailed by April 24
• A second notice will go out once the fix is ready

Owners can contact Orange EV customer service at 1 866 688 5223 and reference recall number 2026 SRC 02 for more information.

Why This Matters

For fleets running electric yard trucks, even a small component issue can impact safety and workflow. Staying on top of recalls like this helps prevent downtime and keeps both drivers and equipment protected on the job.

The post Over 400 Orange EV Trucks Recalled for Safety Issues appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The demonstration took place on a quarter-mile test segment along U.S. Highway 52 and U.S. Highway 231 in West Lafayette, Indiana. The roadway segment, built by the Indiana Department of Transportation, was designed to transfer power wirelessly to vehicles as they move, eliminating the need for plugs or stationary charging stops.

An electric Class 8 truck provided by Cummins was used during the fall test, charging while traveling at normal highway speeds.

How the Wireless Charging System Works

The system was developed by Purdue engineers and is described by the university as a form of dynamic wireless power transfer. In this context, dynamic means the vehicle receives power while in motion rather than while stopped.

Because vehicles move faster on highways than on city streets, the system must deliver significantly higher power levels to be effective for commercial trucks. During testing, the Purdue system delivered up to 190 kilowatts to the truck while it traveled at 65 miles per hour.

While similar technology has been tested elsewhere, applying it to highways and heavy-duty vehicles presents additional challenges due to speed, vehicle weight, and power requirements.

Cummins Participation in the Project

Cummins worked with Purdue researchers to adapt a prototype battery-electric truck for use with the wireless charging system.

“Cummins is proud to play a role in this initiative by successfully adapting a prototype Class 8 battery-electric truck to integrate with Purdue’s high-power dynamic wireless power transfer system,” said John Kresse, chief technology engineer at Cummins. “The on-road testing went exceptionally well, thanks to strong collaboration between our teams. With its high power and promising cost structure, this technology represents a practical, and potentially game-changing, solution for the future of on-highway commercial transportation.”

Long-Term Research Effort Behind the Test

The demonstration is part of a multistage research effort that began in 2018. Purdue and the Indiana Department of Transportation have collaborated on the project through the Joint Transportation Research Program.

The work is also affiliated with a National Science Foundation Engineering Research Center known as Advancing Self-sufficiency through Powered Infrastructure for Roadway Electrification, or ASPIRE.

“With this breakthrough system, Purdue has shown that powering large commercial vehicles wirelessly is not just technically feasible but could be a practical and scalable solution for real-world highway transportation,” said Nadia Gkritza, a Purdue professor of civil and construction engineering and agricultural and biological engineering.

What This Could Mean for Electric Trucking

Purdue researchers say one potential benefit of wireless highway charging is the ability to reduce battery size in electric trucks. Smaller batteries could allow trucks to carry more freight while lowering equipment costs.

By delivering power directly through the roadway, the system could help electric trucks stay charged during long trips rather than relying solely on large onboard batteries or frequent stops.

The demonstration highlights ongoing research into how future highways could support electric vehicles of all sizes, including heavy-duty commercial trucks, through embedded charging infrastructure.

Source: Commercial Carrier Journal

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Tighter Emissions Standards Across the Board

The Environmental Protection Agency has approved new emission rules for heavy-duty trucks that will apply to incoming model years starting in 2027. The goal is to cut nitrogen oxides and greenhouse gas emissions significantly over the next decade. Instead of prescribing one technology, the rules allow fleets to choose cleaner solutions that work for them — whether that’s battery‑electric, hydrogen fuel cell, or upgraded diesel engines with stronger emission control systems.

Several states are going above and beyond these requirements. California, for example, is pushing ahead with its Advanced Clean Trucks and Advanced Clean Fleets programs, which set a timeline for phasing in more zero-emission trucks and aim for a mostly zero-emission medium‑ and heavy-duty fleet by 2035. Other states are following similar paths, so interstate drivers may encounter different standards depending on the routes they run.

What Fleets Are Doing to Keep Up

The changes aren’t happening in theory; they’re visible in company yards. More carriers are adding electric or hydrogen-powered rigs where the infrastructure supports them. For fleets that aren’t ready to switch entirely, retrofits like diesel particulate filters and selective catalytic reduction systems are helping older trucks meet tighter emission limits.

Fuel efficiency upgrades are also in the spotlight. Better aerodynamic designs, tires with lower rolling resistance, and lighter truck components are all being deployed to cut both fuel use and emissions. Programs like the EPA’s SmartWay recognize fleets making measurable progress in this space, which in turn can help carriers win contracts with shippers who value sustainable transport.

What Drivers Might Notice

For most drivers, the steering wheel, gears, and daily grind won’t change overnight. But you will likely start noticing more electric rigs in the yard, new refueling or charging setups, and trucks with systems designed to run cleaner. These changes can make for a quieter cab, potentially better fuel mileage, and in some cases less frequent maintenance on certain components, though some of the new systems require their own specialized care.

Why This Matters to the Job

Cleaner trucks mean meeting environmental targets, but they also frequently bring cost advantages over time. Lower fuel bills, the possibility of fewer mechanical issues, and compliance with tightening rules all play into a fleet’s ability to stay competitive. And for drivers, adapting to these changes keeps you aligned with a rapidly evolving industry.

Looking Ahead

Sustainability in trucking is no longer just a future goal; it’s part of everyday operations. As the push for lower emissions continues, drivers and fleets that stay informed and flexible will be best placed to succeed, all while helping reduce the industry’s environmental impact. This is the road the industry is on, and everyone who moves freight has a role in where it leads next.

The post How Sustainability Is Changing the Trucking Industry appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

A big part of this push is building an electric charging depot at the Hunts Point Food Distribution Center. Picture a facility with 32 fast chargers—8 of them set up for large Class 8 trucks—and room for smaller EVs, electric bikes, and scooters as well. This hub, backed by NYCEDC and developed by MN8 Energy, even includes a training center to help the community learn green‑tech jobs.

Mack Trucks is already on the ground, delivering its first LR Electric refuse truck to Royal Waste Services. That truck comes with:

• A 376 kWh battery (42% more energy and longer range than older versions)
• Twin electric motors delivering 448 hp and 4,051 lb‑ft torque from zero RPM
• Regenerative braking and fast charging using a standard 150 kW SAE J1772 connector

“This delivery represents more than just a new vehicle,” explained Mack Trucks North America President Jonathan Randall. “It’s a tangible step toward advancing sustainable transportation and demonstrates how the transportation industry can support community environmental goals. The Mack LR Electric offers zero‑emission operation while providing Royal Waste Services with a reliable solution for its operations.”

Royal Waste Services’ district manager, Michael Angelo Reali, added:

“Integrating this zero-emission Mack LR Electric into our fleet demonstrates that electric refuse collection can be both operationally effective and environmentally responsible.”
“This partnership with Mack Trucks and the broader Bronx Is Breathing initiative allows us to serve the Hunts Point community while reducing our environmental footprint and supporting the transition to cleaner transportation solutions.”

Later this year, Volvo Trucks North America plans to add four Class 7 VNR Electric trucks—plus refrigerated EV units—for City Harvest food rescue operations, all charging at the new Hunts Point hub.

Development is expected to get going in 2026. When it’s complete, the hub will support heavy trucks, vans, e-bikes, and more. Trucker tech and community training will go hand in hand, making this a rare combo of sustainable freight and local economic investment.

For drivers, this signals a bigger trend: electrification is coming to urban routes where operational stops and starts match EV strengths. Advanced trucks like the Mack LR Electric are already proving that they can juggle performance, range, and reliability—especially in tight urban settings.

(Image Source: Mack Trucks) Volvo Group Vice President of Government Relations and Public Affairs, Dawn Fenton, delivers remarks alongside New York State Assemblywoman Amanda Septimo (far right) and New York City Council Member Rafael Salamanca Jr. (right), along with representatives from NYSERDA, NYCEDC, and MN8 Energy. 

Source: Trucking Info

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Elly the Electric Truck tells the story of a determined electric semi as she embarks on a big delivery adventure, outrunning fuel-powered vehicles and recharging after a full day’s work. Packed with bold illustrations by Tanya Matiikiv and a strong female lead, the book introduces young readers to electric truck technology while also challenging old-school gender roles.

Keith, a U.S. Navy veteran and third-generation trucking professional, knows the industry inside and out. Her experience spans truck manufacturing, engineering, leadership, and even professional driving—making her uniquely positioned to bring this story to life. The idea for the book came after she noticed the lack of female representation while reading to her young daughter.

Whether you’re behind the wheel or raising the next generation of truck lovers, this book is a reminder that the industry’s story is evolving—and there’s room for everyone in the driver’s seat.

Source: KOLO 8

The post She Grew Up Around Semis—Now Her Book Is Inspiring the Next Generation appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Let’s break down the specs, real-world performance, and what it all means for drivers navigating the future.

Power & Performance

Tesla Semi

• Motors: Three independent electric motors
• Horsepower: Over 1,000 HP
• Torque: Not officially listed, but designed for max hauling power
• Acceleration: 0–60 mph in 20 seconds with a full 80,000 lbs
• Uphill: Can maintain highway speeds on a 5% grade

Freightliner eCascadia

• Motors: Single or dual electric motor setup
• Horsepower: 320 to 470 HP
• Torque: Up to 23,000 lb-ft (dual motor config)
• Acceleration: Tuned for local and regional routes
• Speed: Highway-capable, not performance-focused

If you’re running regional loads, eCascadia’s specs are more than enough. For long-haul power and highway-grade climbs, the Tesla Semi edges out.

Range & Charging

Tesla Semi

• Battery: ~800–900 kWh
• Range: Up to 500 miles per charge
• Charging: 1 MW DC fast charging (70% in 30 minutes)

eCascadia

• Battery: 291–438 kWh
• Range: 155 to 230 miles
• Charging: 80% in around 90 minutes (depending on setup)

Tesla’s longer range puts it in a better position for long-haul and OTR drivers. But range isn’t the only factor—charging infrastructure still makes or breaks electric truck viability.

Real-World Use & Field Data

Tesla Semi has proven itself under pressure. In NACFE’s Run on Less – Electric Depot, Tesla Semis were clocking over 1,000 miles in a single day, with daily averages of around 923 km (574 miles).

Freightliner’s eCascadia is already in the wild. Reyes Coca-Cola added 29 to its fleet and reported cleaner operations, reliable power, and quieter rides.

Both trucks have clear use cases—eCascadia for regional distribution, and Tesla Semi for longer linehauls.

Support, Availability & Infrastructure

Tesla Semi

• Limited initial rollout
• Mass production expected by late 2025
• Megacharger network still in development
• Maintenance and service hubs still ramping up

eCascadia

• Already in production and fleet use
• Uses industry-standard CCS fast charging
• Supported by Freightliner’s national dealer network

If you’re trying to electrify a fleet today, Freightliner wins on availability and support. But Tesla’s rollout could make waves by next year.

So—Is It the Future, or Just Hype?

The future’s not hype—it’s here. But not every route is ready for it.

• Tesla Semi is the better pick for OTR and long-haul applications—once charging and service infrastructure catch up.
• Freightliner eCascadia is ideal for fleets doing regional or last-mile freight and looking to cut emissions now.

Electrification isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s a spectrum—and both of these trucks bring something legit to the table.

Image Source: Next Big Future

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Mike Roeth, NACFE’s Executive Director, highlights the importance of this phase in the evolution of trucking technology, saying, “The Messy Middle is a time when fleets can choose from a variety of powertrain solutions and other efficiency-enhancing technologies. For this Run, we are featuring tractors powered by diesel, natural gas, batteries, and hydrogen fuel cells. These four powertrain solutions represent currently available options for fleets today.”

The Fleets and Technologies Driving the Run

A total of 13 fleets will be participating in the event, utilizing a mix of advanced powertrains. Here’s an overview of the trucks involved in this groundbreaking demonstration:

• Albert Transport (Laredo, TX): Operating a 2022 Freightliner Cascadia sleeper tractor powered by a Detroit DD15 diesel engine.

• Frito-Lay (Topeka, KS): Using a Volvo VNL sleeper tractor equipped with the Optimus Technologies system running on B99 biodiesel.

• TBA: Deploying a heavy-duty tractor fueled by renewable diesel.

• Mesilla Valley Transportation (Las Cruces, NM): Running an International LT sleeper tractor with a Cummins X15 2027 NOx diesel engine.

• Kleysen Group Ltd. (Edmonton, AB): Operating a Kenworth T680 sleeper tractor featuring a Cummins X15N engine using natural gas.

• UPS (Salt Lake City, UT): Using a Kenworth T680 day cab tractor with a Cummins X15N natural gas engine.

• Wegmans (Rochester, NY): Running a Peterbilt 360 day cab tractor powered by a Cummins X15N natural gas engine.

• 4Gen Logistics (Rialto, CA): Featuring a Volvo VNR day cab electric tractor.

• JoyRide Logistics (Phoenix, AZ): Leveraging a battery-electric Windrose day cab tractor.

• Nevoya (Colton, CA): Operating a battery-electric Freightliner eCascadia day cab tractor.

• Saia (Stockton, CA): Showcasing a battery-electric Tesla Semi day cab tractor.

• Pilot Travel Centers (Bloomington, CA): Utilizing a Hyundai XCIENT hydrogen fuel cell day cab tractor.

• Penske Logistics (Katy, TX): Also operating a Hyundai XCIENT hydrogen fuel cell day cab tractor.

A Collaborative Effort Across the Industry

Taki Darakos, Vice President of Vehicle Maintenance and Fleet Services at PITT OHIO, expresses his enthusiasm for this wide-reaching effort, stating, “PITT OHIO, as well as other fleets I’ve spoken with, are thrilled to have such a wide range of fleets and solutions in this Run. We believe this truly represents the state of long-haul trucking today and by capturing data from these 13 vehicles that we will help the industry see the role these various powertrains play in both return-to-base and over-the-road long-haul trucking.”

Key Details About the Program

The three-week event is scheduled to begin on September 8, with Geotab acting as the official telematics and data partner. Fleet profiles will be featured on the Run on Less website throughout August, while the event will stream live data and insights during September.

The Messy Middle Bootcamp also continues to explore the technologies driving the Messy Middle. On April 8, at 1 p.m. ET, the focus shifted to battery electric vehicles (BEVs), complementing sessions on diesel and natural gas that have already concluded. Discussions on hydrogen fuel cells are set to follow.

Cummins and Shell Take Center Stage

Cummins and Shell proudly sponsor the event as title sponsors, with significant contributions from other event sponsors and supporting sponsors. Roeth expressed his gratitude, noting, “We want to thank our title sponsors, event sponsors, and supporting sponsors for helping fund this Run. We could not do this work without their assistance. We are still seeking additional support, and anyone interested in supporting the Run should contact me at 260-750-0106.”

The diversity of participating fleets and technologies underscores the complex transition underway in the trucking industry. Stay updated on the Run on Less – Messy Middle program and learn how these innovations pave the way towards a more sustainable and efficient transportation future.

Source: The Trucker
Image Source: RunOnLess

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A Legacy Built on Excellence

Peterbilt’s story began in 1939, when founder T.A. Peterman set out to build trucks that were tougher and more efficient for the logging industry. Over the decades, the company has stayed true to its mission, earning a reputation for craftsmanship, innovation, and high performance. Today, Peterbilt is a symbol of trust and durability in the trucking sector.

Leading the Industry in Trucking Innovation

Peterbilt has long been at the forefront of innovation, continuously finding new ways to enhance fuel efficiency, safety, and the driving experience. Key advancements include:

1. Redefined Aerodynamics

Peterbilt models like the 579 are engineered with advanced aerodynamics to reduce drag, boost fuel efficiency, and lower operating expenses. These sleek designs also help cut emissions, benefiting both businesses and the planet.

2. SmartNav Technology

The SmartNav system integrates navigation, real-time diagnostics, and communication tools within an intuitive platform. It ensures smoother operations for drivers, enabling them to plan optimal routes and stay informed.

3. PACCAR Powertrain

Peterbilt trucks are powered by PACCAR MX engines that strike the perfect balance of power and efficiency. With high performance and reduced fuel consumption, these powertrains excel at ensuring productive and cost-effective hauls.

4. Commitment to Sustainability

Peterbilt is setting a new standard with electric and alternative fuel solutions, such as the Peterbilt 579EV and 520EV. These electric models not only cut down on emissions but also provide long-term cost savings for owners looking to transition to greener operations.

Designed with Drivers in Mind

Peterbilt knows that driver comfort and satisfaction are essential for long-haul success. The brand goes above and beyond to ensure drivers have a pleasant and efficient experience, offering:

• Premium Cabin Interiors: Stay productive and organized with ergonomically designed interiors, customizable seating, intuitive dashboards, and plenty of storage options.

• Quieter Rides: Enhanced noise-reducing features ensure smoother and quieter journeys, helping minimize driver fatigue on long trips.

• Luxury Sleeper Cabs: Customizable sleeper options deliver comfort for drivers spending extended hours or days on the road, creating a home-away-from-home experience.

Built for Durability and Dependability

Peterbilt trucks are designed to bring drivers peace of mind by excelling in performance and reliability. Here’s how they keep you moving:

• Rugged Construction: From a strong chassis to a durable frame, Peterbilt trucks handle heavy loads and tough terrain without breaking a sweat.

• Advanced Safety Systems: Features like adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation, and lane departure warnings prioritize driver and cargo safety on every trip.

• Efficient Maintenance: Peterbilt trucks are built with accessibility in mind, simplifying routine maintenance and repairs. This design helps reduce downtime and keep fleets operational longer.

Why Drivers Choose Peterbilt

Peterbilt’s commitment to innovation, driver comfort, and exceptional performance has fostered a loyal community of truckers who trust the brand with their livelihoods. Whether it’s the timeless design of the Peterbilt 389 or the fuel-efficient performance of the 579, Peterbilt trucks deliver on the features drivers care about most.

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