#United States #Los Angeles #Orange EV #APM Terminals #battery-electric tractors

APM Terminals Los Angeles Expands Electric Tractor Fleet

In a significant move toward sustainability, APM Terminals Los Angeles has finalized a contract with Orange EV to acquire 40 new HUSK-e XP battery-electric terminal tractors. This expansion will boost the terminal’s electric fleet, increasing the total number of electric tractors at Pier 400 to 60. This makes Pier 400 the first container terminal within the Port of Los Angeles to fully electrify its on-dock rail drayage fleet, signifying a major step in reducing emissions in the area.

Achievements in Sustainability

Since initially deploying 20 Orange EV terminal tractors in April 2025, this collaboration has yielded impressive results. The existing fleet has logged 42,000 operating hours without any tailpipe emissions, demonstrating a remarkable average uptime of 98.8%. This efficiency has translated into a significant reduction in diesel consumption—over 40,700 gallons—and has prevented approximately 427 metric tons of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere. Furthermore, APM Terminals Los Angeles has reported substantial reductions in various pollutants, achieving an 82% decrease in nitrogen oxides, 61% in diesel particulate matter, 56% in sulfur oxides, and 59% in greenhouse gases since 2017.

Jon Poelma, Managing Director of APM Terminals Los Angeles, emphasized that this procurement decision was based on solid operational data collected over the last year, noting, "Our operators ran these trucks hard, and the results earned this expansion."

Workforce Development and Training

Prior to the introduction of the new units, a select group of mechanics from the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) will undergo an advanced electrical safety training course. This will build upon the foundational training provided to 21 Power Shop mechanics in 2025. In addition, one of the HUSK-e XP units will be used as a training tool at the ILWU mechanic training center, providing hands-on experience for workers.

Fleet Conversion and Future Plans

With the anticipated deployment of the new electric terminal tractors by January 2027, approximately 60% of the terminal's 101-unit fleet will be converted to battery-electric vehicles, achieving the highest conversion rate among container terminals in the Port of Los Angeles. This procurement aligns with APM Terminals' larger strategy for comprehensive fleet electrification, bolstered by a grant application for an additional 30 electric tractors.

Currently, Pier 400 operates 51 charging stations—the highest number in the San Pedro Bay harbor complex. To accommodate the expanded fleet, the terminal will also procure 20 additional dual-plug Level 3 fast-charging stations, ensuring that the operational capacity supports the new entries.

Advanced Technology in Terminal Operations

Orange EV's HUSK-e XP units feature state-of-the-art technology fully compliant with the Build America, Buy America Act (BABA). Each unit is designed for robust terminal operations, capable of transporting loads up to 180,000 lbs. These vehicles utilize a high-capacity 310 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, which is the largest battery pack in the Orange EV range.

The contract highlights APM Terminals' comprehensive procurement strategy, which prioritizes long-term value over initial costs. Kurt Neutgens, Co-Founder and CTO of Orange EV, stated, "Performance is measured in uptime, throughput, and reliability in environments like APM Terminals. This collaboration and the feedback have directly influenced improvements to the HUSK-e XP, showcasing the strength of our partnership."

Funding and Future Impacts

This procurement is part of a broader $80 million initiative under the EPA Clean Ports Program, aiming to replace various types of container handling equipment, including top handlers and forklifts. This funding is an important mix of federal EPA grants, Port contribution, and APM Terminals' investment, underlining the commitment to cleaner air in local port communities.

Gene Seroka, Executive Director of the Port of Los Angeles, reflected on the program’s objectives, noting that APM Terminals' fleet of electric tractors will significantly cut diesel emissions, enhancing air quality for workers and nearby residents. In essence, this initiative stands as a testament to real change—actual equipment making a measurable difference in the environment.

Conclusion

APM Terminals Los Angeles' partnership with Orange EV marks a pivotal moment in the industry, showcasing a dedicated approach to achieving sustainability in port operations. With the implementation of electric terminal tractors, the terminal is set to lead by example, fostering cleaner, more efficient practices that may inspire similar initiatives throughout the maritime and transportation sectors.