4 Gen Logistics Accelerates to a Fully Zero-Emission Drayage Fleet Ahead of Rule Deadlines
Rialto, California (High Desert News Online) – 4 Gen Logistics is undertaking an accelerated transition of its drayage operations at the San Pedro Bay Port Complex, with an explicit goal of reaching 100% zero-tailpipe emissions by the end of 2025. The plan combines large vehicle orders, mixed powertrains, and a significant charging infrastructure buildout to support high-utilization short-haul runs.
Key takeaways
- 100% ZEV target: Company aims for zero-tailpipe emissions for drayage by end of 2025 (see Comvoy; Electrek).
- Fleet today: Operating 79 zero-emission vehicles including Volvo VNR Electrics, Kenworth T680E BEVs and Nikola hydrogen fuel-cell trucks (reported by Comvoy; Electrek).
- Charging buildout: Two Electrify America depots (Long Beach and Rialto) with roughly up to 60 high-capacity chargers at the port site to support fast turnarounds (Comvoy; DSLLog).
- Early purchases: Initial order of 41 Volvo VNR Electric trucks in 2022 (FleetOwner).
Fleet transformation: vehicles, timeline and operational mix
The company started its conversion in 2022 with a major order — an initial purchase of 41 Volvo VNR Electric trucks — and has since expanded its zero-emission roster. As reported, 4 Gen currently operates 79 ZEVs, comprised of Volvo VNR Electrics, Kenworth T680E battery-electric trucks and hydrogen fuel-cell units from Nikola (Comvoy; Electrek; FleetOwner).
The mixed fleet strategy is pragmatic: battery-electric trucks are prioritized for short, high-utilization drayage legs where charging windows exist, while hydrogen fuel-cell units address longer-range needs or situations requiring faster refueling. Drivers and fleet managers note the trucks provide quieter rides, smooth torque, and operational suitability when supported by reliable charging.
Charging and infrastructure buildout
A central challenge for electrifying drayage is depot charging speed and capacity. 4 Gen has partnered with Electrify America to establish two charging hubs — one at the port in Long Beach and another in Rialto. The Long Beach depot was reported to include up to 30 hyper-fast chargers rated as high as 350 kW, later expanded to bring the port site to about 60 high-capacity chargers, described as one of the largest fast-charging installations at a North American port (Comvoy; DSLLog).
High-capacity fast chargers reduce downtime and help maintain tight drayage schedules. The charging deployment is positioned as a proving ground: successful operations could demonstrate that ports and carriers can run electric drayage reliably at scale.
Environmental and community effects
The shift to zero-tailpipe drayage has immediate local benefits: reduced diesel particulate and NOx emissions in one of the nation’s busiest and most-polluting corridors linking the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach to inland distribution centers. That change supports port clean-air policies and regional public-health objectives (Comvoy; Electrek).
“Drivers report quieter cabs, less vibration, and strong regenerative braking that eases wear on brakes,” — operational benefits that can aid retention and lower maintenance costs over time.
Implications for the High Desert, California
Economic impact: The Rialto depot and related charging facilities create construction and maintenance jobs and spur demand for electricians and EV technicians. Local repair shops and suppliers could capture new revenue streams as logistics firms consider inland depots in the High Desert (DSLLog).
Public cost and health: For fiscally focused stakeholders, the key metric is total cost of ownership and whether private investment in electrification lowers long-term public health expenditures tied to diesel pollution. Electrified drayage that reduces hospital visits and lost work days can justify targeted incentives and public-private partnerships (Electrek).
Workforce and training: The transition will require high-voltage service skills; local community colleges and trade programs can prepare technicians for EV maintenance and safety roles.
Transportation and land use: Increased depot activity may change traffic patterns; coordinated permitting, zoning, and infrastructure upgrades can capture benefits while limiting disruption.
Industry leadership and broader lessons
Observers cite 4 Gen as a model: early vehicle orders, pilot programs (such as Volvo LIGHTS), layered funding from state and port grants, and public-private partnerships helped lower electrification barriers. Financially, higher upfront costs are offset over years by lower operating and maintenance expenses when utilization and charging are well-managed (Electrek; FleetOwner).
Operational challenges and open questions
Remaining hurdles include local grid capacity and rates, depot siting and permitting delays, and limited hydrogen fueling infrastructure for fuel-cell trucks. 4 Gen is addressing these through phased builds, vendor partnerships, and vehicle diversification, but other operators will be watching how those constraints are resolved (Comvoy; DSLLog).
Sources and reporting
This report draws on company announcements and trade coverage, including reporting on vehicle purchases, fleet counts and infrastructure projects: Comvoy; DSLLog; Electrek; FleetOwner.
