Coca-Cola Bottler Goes Green with Freightliner eCascadia Trucks

Daimler Truck North America, LLC (DTNA) has delivered 20 zero-emission, battery electric Freightliner eCascadia Class 8 tractors to Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling (RCCB), a bottler and distributor of Coca-Cola brands in the Midwest and West Coast. RCCB's fleet of delivery trucks in Downey, California, will now be joined by these electric vehicles, representing the first zero-emission heavy-duty trucks added to their California fleet. 

The eCascadias will rely solely on 20 Detroit eFill commercial charging stations installed at the Downey facility. RCCB also uses the Detroit Charger Management System, a powerful software solution that provides a comprehensive view of their electric fleet. This allows for efficient energy management, ultimately reducing operational costs. 

Growing a Sustainable Delivery Fleet 

RCCB worked with Detroit eConsulting, a team of eMobility experts dedicated to every step of the electric truck conversion process, to ensure the best possible site design and seamless integration of the eCascadias into their fleet. 

DTNA's Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing, David Carson, said, "Our collaboration with Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling marks a significant milestone in promoting sustainable transportation. The integration of Freightliner eCascadias into RCCB's fleet showcases that business and environmental responsibility can go hand-in-hand, all while fostering innovation and efficiency." 

The 20 eCascadias are expected to result in the reduced use of 40,000 gallons of diesel fuel per year and will have tank-to-wheel 100% all-electric operation. These zero-emission heavy-duty tractors are essential to reducing carbon emissions in RCCB's operations. 

RCCB aims to reduce its carbon emissions by 30% by 2030. 

Reyes Coca-Cola Bottling Vice President of Strategic Infrastructure and Development Tim Heinen said, "We're excited to roll out these 100% electric, zero-emission heavy-duty tractors as we strive toward our goal of reducing our carbon emissions in our operations. Our electric fleet for Downey, which now includes electric semi-trucks and electric customer care vehicles, will serve customers throughout Southern California and build on our commitment to make a positive difference in our communities." 

The city of Downey also expressed its support for the move towards a greener, more sustainable future.

Downey Mayor Claudia M. Frometa said, "The increasing use of zero-emission vehicles is a benefit for everyone, which is why we appreciate being chosen as home base for these impressive trucks."

Powering a Green Future

The Freightliner eCascadias provide optimal productivity for fleets looking to make a change to efficient, zero-emission tractors. Recharging takes as little as two and a half to three hours to reach 80% capacity, fostering enhanced efficiency.

The eCascadia offers various battery and drive axle options, delivering a typical range of 155, 220, or 230 miles, depending on the specific setup. The multiple configurations offered are ideal for short and regional haul routes involving depot-based charging, including last-mile logistics, local and regional distribution, drayage, and warehouse-to-warehouse operations.

Developed in-house and fully integrated, the Detroit ePowertrain prioritizes power, efficiency, and reliability. For enhanced safety on the road, the eCascadia also comes standard with the Detroit Assurance suite of safety systems, including Active Brake Assist 5.