Daimler Truck North America partners up to develop BE CV charging network

Project outline for battery-electric CV charging network Photo: Daimler Truck

Daimler Truck North America, NextEra Energy Resources and BlackRock Renewable Power have signed a memorandum of understanding which will see the formation of a joint venture to implement a charging network for medium- and heavy-duty battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.

Initial funding for the project is approx. $650 million (€580 million), divided across the three partner companies.

Operations are planned to start this year, with the first charging sites set up in 2023.

The charging sites will be located on ‘critical freight routes’ that include East and West Coast highways and also Texas. Locations will leverage existing infrastructure and amenities.

The initial focus will be on recharging points for medium- and heavy-duty battery electric vehicles, followed by hydrogen fuelling stations.

NextEra is a specialist in electric infrastructure, while BlackRock is an investor in renewable power and enery transition projects.

This is the latest move by Daimler Truck to support similar energy delivery projects. The OEM has partnered with energy companies, including Shell, BP and TotalEnergies, and other OEMs, including the Traton Group and Volvo Group, to kickstart similar refuelling networks to support a carbon-neutral transport industry.

Daimler Truck North America already operates what is described as ‘the first of its kind’ public charging site for commercial vehicles in Portland, Oregon.