Last week Covenant Logistics became the first for-hire fleet to deliver freight using the near-zero carbon emission alternative fuel, 100% Biodiesel (B100). Our shippers have a new option in an ongoing journey to create decarbonization solutions that aren't solely focused on the "one-size-fits-all" zero emission vehicle (ZEV) approach, which is often pushed as the only strategy worth pursing (I'll save that can of worms for a different post).
Utilizing a solution from Optimus Technologies, Inc., Covenant affordably retrofitted three class 8 diesel trucks to provide near-zero carbon emission movement of freight without sacrificing performance, maintenance issues, or fuel economy. While this solution has been available for several years, Optimus's success has been limited to private fleets who made large investments in on-site fueling tanks and coordination of fuel delivery. With the support of public fueling stations, the growing availability of this alternative fuel will provide a new option for any fleet looking to make a significant impact on their Scope 1 and 3 decarbonization strategies.
For long-haulers like Covenant, the holy grail of ZEV delivery of freight just isn't available at this time. But we can't let "perfection get in the way of progress" and there are solid options - available today - worth considering. Working closely with the North American Council for Freight Efficiency (NACFE), Daimler Truck North America, PACCAR, Cummins Inc., TravelCenters of America, Pilot Flying J, subject matter experts from GNA (a TRC Company), and industry peers (and competitors), Covenant has been studying all decarbonization options and welcomes the opportunity to share our analysis with shippers. Working together, we can find solutions that balance your financial budget, risk tolerance, and decarbonization timelines.
Note: I must recognize a few folks: the thought leadership and early B100 investment by PepsiCo (specifically their Chief Sustainability Officer David Allen, Adam Buttgenbach) for sharing Pepsi's experience, as they are the largest B100 fleet at this time. From Optimus Technologies, Inc. - Karl Thomas / Colin Huwyler (and many others) for their hard work and dedication for reasons that often seem more about sustainability than profit. From Covenant, the wisdom from mentors Dan Porterfield and Allen Walters who, together with their entire team, know how to keep a fleet running better than anyone else I've ever met.
For more about the B100 solution, check out: https://lnkd.in/gfXWMDm6
#decarbonization #alternativefuel #sustainability #trucking #zeroemissions
