EV News Roundup: July 2023

The work truck industry is abuzz with exciting developments in EVs, as companies actively adopt eco-friendly alternatives to decrease their carbon footprints.

The sector is experiencing a swift transformation, characterized by cutting-edge EV technologies and significant progress in charging infrastructure.

Stay informed with the most recent news about EVs in the work truck industry. We’ve got the latest news on EVs in the work truck industry in one place as of July 20, 2023.

Top Electric Work Truck News

Feel like there is a new EV update every week? We’ve got you covered on the top items you might have missed.

Mullen Celebrates Its First Class 3 Vehicles

Mullen Automotive has announced an upcoming commercial EV launch event set to take place on August 24, 2023. This event will celebrate the production of the first Class 3 vehicles, all set for delivery to customers.

The launch event will be held at Mullen's commercial assembly plant in Tunica, Mississippi. Attendees can expect engaging activities such as factory tours, company presentations, ride and drives, as well as vehicle demonstrations. Notable guests will include select media, customers, dealers, vehicle upfitters, suppliers, and local leaders.

The Tunica commercial assembly plant, spread across over 120,000 square feet on over 100 acres, is specifically dedicated to producing Class 1 and Class 3 commercial EV vehicles.

The Mullen THREE, an efficient Class 3 low cab forward EV truck, will be the showcased vehicles. It has an 11,000 Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, an impressive turning diameter of 38 feet, and excellent visibility for maneuvering through narrow city streets.

Run on Less – Electric DEPOT Adds Two More Fleets

Two additional fleets, Purolator in Richmond, British Columbia, and US Foods in La Mirada, California, have joined the North American Council for Freight Efficiency's (NACFE) Run on Less - Electric DEPOT initiative, along with eight other fleets.

This program now includes Frito-Lay, OK Produce, Penske, PepsiCo, Performance Team, Schneider, UPS, and WattEV. NACFE has also chosen various trucks from various manufacturers to follow at the ten participating truck depots for the upcoming Run.

Mike Roeth, the executive director of NACFE, expressed excitement about the increased fleet participation, including a Canadian fleet and another California-based one.

PG&E Rolls Out EV Adoption Program

Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) supports California's vehicle electrification and climate action goals through two new programs, Empower EV and Multifamily Housing and Small Business EV Charger pilots. These programs aim to improve access to electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in underserved communities, offering no-cost charging infrastructure and resources for single-family homes, multifamily housing units, nonprofit organizations, and small businesses in low- and moderate-income areas.

Hummer EV 3X Pickup

GMC has announced the extended driving range for the 2024 GMC Hummer EV 3X Pickup. The 3X trim, equipped with the available 24-module battery, is estimated to offer 381 miles of range on a full charge, a 26-mile increase over the 2023 model year.

Additionally, models with the available Extreme Off-Road Package are expected to have a range of 359 miles on a full charge, a 30-mile increase compared to the previous model year.

Chevrolet Silverado EV

Automotive journalists, influencers, and fleet professionals were recently invited to Michigan for a media event to test the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV.

While the event offered driving impressions and towing tests, GM chose not to provide embargoed press materials with specific vehicle specifications such as battery size and curb weight. Instead, GM showcased impressive topline stats like 10,000 lbs. max towing, 1,400 lbs. payload, and 450 miles of range.

The decision to withhold certain numbers may be to prioritize real-world performance experiences and allow the truck's capabilities to speak for themselves before revealing all the technical details to potential buyers.

Mullen’s New Mobile EV Charging Truck

Mullen Automotive has introduced PowerUP, a mobile electric vehicle charging truck capable of providing level 2 and 3 DC fast charging when conventional power sources are unavailable.

This caters to scenarios like roadside assistance and emergency response, where immediate charging is crucial for electric vehicles or emergency power backup.

PowerUP will be showcased on Mullen's upcoming 2023 "Strikingly Different" EV Tour, ensuring level 2 and 3 DC fast charging for their electric vehicles during the journey. Interested buyers can place advance orders for this mobile charging solution, addressing the challenge of limited Level 3 DC fast charging infrastructure outside of California.