PepsiCo Beverages North America (PBNA) announced today the expansion of its electric-powered fleet across California, including the deployment of 50 more Class 8 Tesla Semi trucks. Previously we saw how 21 Tesla Semis were operating for PepsiCo.
These trucks will operate out of PBNA’s manufacturing and distribution facility in Fresno. Additionally, 75 Ford E-Transit electric vans will enhance the electrification of PBNA’s equipment services fleet throughout the state. This initiative aligns with PepsiCo’s pep+ (PepsiCo Positive) goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2040.
“Our fleet electrification is an important part of our pep+ (PepsiCo Positive) strategy and illustrates how sustainability is a core business strategy at PepsiCo— good for the planet, good for our business, and good for the communities we serve,” said John Dean, President for PepsiCo Beverages North America, West Division.
The Fresno facility, a 170,000-square-foot manufacturing site, will distribute PepsiCo products such as Pepsi, STARRY, Gatorade, Rockstar, and Aquafina. The site has been equipped with eight 750-kilowatt Tesla chargers and two Tesla Megapack Battery Energy Storage Systems to power the electric Semis.
In addition to the Tesla Semis, PBNA will deploy 75 Ford E-Transit electric vans across its 13 California locations. These vans will be used for various applications, including sales deliveries and service support.
The deployment of electric vehicles in Fresno will also initiate a job training program for students from Reedley College and Duncan Polytechnic High School. Over 100 students annually will receive hands-on training in electric truck technology and infrastructure maintenance.
PepsiCo’s involvement in the North American Council for Freight Efficiency’s (NACFE) 2023 Run on Less Electric Depot showcased the seamless integration of electrified Semis into PBNA’s operations. The Tesla Semis currently operating out of PBNA’s Sacramento facility and Frito-Lay North America’s Modesto facility have demonstrated the viability of these electric trucks.
The expansion of PBNA’s electric fleet is supported by grants from the California Air Resources Board, the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District, and the California Energy Commission. These grants are part of the California Climate Investments initiative, which utilizes Cap-and-Trade dollars to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, boost the economy, and improve public health and the environment, particularly in disadvantaged communities.
