APM Terminals Pier 400 has deployed the largest fleet of electric terminal tractors (ETTs) in the Port of Los Angeles, marking a significant milestone in the terminal’s effort to decarbonize operations and enhance workforce skills.
Hands-on Training
In mid-May, Pier 400 spearheaded a three-day paid training program for 21 ILWU Local 13 union mechanics employed by PCMC. The comprehensive training, led by Orange EV technicians, focused on safety protocols, diagnostics, and routine maintenance specific to the new electric tractors being introduced. The program blended classroom instruction with hands-on, real-world application.
This training initiative is a component of a broader effort aimed at preparing the Pier 400 workforce for the evolving technological requirements of modern terminal operations. APM Terminals, in collaboration with its workforce, the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA), and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), is strategically investing in workforce readiness. This includes programs designed to teach, demonstrate, and refresh the necessary skills for maintaining and operating contemporary, zero-emission cargo handling equipment.
Joe Gregorio Jr., President and Chief Operations Officer at PCMC, commented on the success of the training: “This training has given our mechanics both the confidence and capability to support the port’s clean energy future. We’re proud to be part of an effort that values upskilling and union craftsmanship alongside much-needed progress to decarbonize supply chains. PCMC is dedicated to supporting both APM Terminals and our mechanics in the shift to decarbonize operations.”
Electric Terminal Tractors
The new electric terminal tractors being deployed at Pier 400 are manufactured by Orange EV, a Kansas City-based company. Orange EV is noted for pioneering the first commercially deployed 100% electric Class 8 terminal trucks in the United States.
Their experience in the field is substantial, with over 1,400 trucks deployed across more than 300 fleets. These vehicles have amassed impressive performance records, exceeding 22.6 million miles and 8.3 million hours of operation. Crucially for American infrastructure projects, the trucks are compliant with Build America, Buy America standards and are supported by a domestic service and parts supply network. For container terminal operations, these electric tractors are considered to be a diesel equivalent in terms of performance.
Bill Hamlin, Executive Director at Orange EV, expressed pride in the partnership: “We’re proud to partner with APM Terminals Pier 400 in scaling up zero-emission operations. Designed for the toughest port duty cycles, the HUSK-e continues to prove itself – not just in demos, but also in long-term deployments delivering all-day power, performance, and reliability.”
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Source: APM Terminals
