#United States #electric vehicles #InductEV #Long Beach #California Energy Commission

Advancement in Electric Cargo Handling

The Port of Long Beach is set to transform its operations with the installation of hands-free wireless chargers for electric cargo handling equipment, marking a significant step toward more sustainable port operations. This initiative, led by InductEV in collaboration with the International Transportation Service, LLC (ITS), aims to modernize the port's equipment while minimizing its environmental footprint.

Strategic Collaboration

InductEV, recognized for its innovative wireless electric vehicle charging solutions, will supply high-power inductive charging units as part of a project funded by a recent $3.3 million grant from the California Energy Commission (CEC). This funding was allocated to support the adoption of advanced charging technologies tailored for medium- and heavy-duty electric vehicles.

The project, aptly named "Hands-free Charging for Battery Electric Cargo Handling Equipment," is one of five initiatives selected from a competitive pool that totaled $33 million in CEC grants. With this development, the Port of Long Beach will host InductEV's first installation on the West Coast after previous successful deployments at the APM Terminals in Port Elizabeth, NJ.

Enhanced Efficiency and Safety

InductEV's wireless charging technology utilizes inductive pads that activate on contact with vehicles, allowing seamless charging without the need for physical connections. This system requires no additional space compared to traditional wired chargers and enhances safety for drivers, as it removes the risks associated with plugging and unplugging equipment.

According to John F. Rizzo, President and CEO of InductEV, this collaboration will not only streamline operations for the ITS team but also drive the industry toward greener practices as more ports look to electrify their fleets.

"As more facilities operate with electric cargo equipment, we foresee wireless inductive charging becoming integral to the transition, reducing dependence on long, energy-consuming overnight charging sessions," he stated.

Commitment to Sustainability

Throughout the project, ITS has demonstrated its commitment to providing innovative, high-quality services while ensuring compliance with environmental standards. Kim Holtermand, CEO of ITS, expressed optimism regarding the introduction of cutting-edge technology at the Port of Long Beach as a testament to their dedication to efficient loading and unloading operations while safeguarding the health of communities and ecosystems.

"The integration of these wireless charging systems reinforces our pledge to serve our business environment responsibly by minimizing our ecological footprint," Holtermand commented.

A Vision for the Future

InductEV, with a presence throughout North America and Europe, has asserted its role as a leader in the electric vehicle charging industry. With advancements backed by 105 patents alongside 118 pending, the company aims to position itself at the forefront of high-speed wireless charging technology, continuously evolving the way electric commercial vehicles recharge their batteries.

Meanwhile, the California Energy Commission remains focused on enhancing state energy policies, developing cutting-edge renewable energy solutions, and transforming transportation operations to secure a sustainable future for the region.

As the project unfolds in Long Beach, the team at ITS anticipates establishing a model for ports across the country to emulate in their pursuit of cleaner and greener operational standards. With this foundational step, the Port of Long Beach is leading the charge toward a sustainable and innovative future in cargo handling.