Happy World Sustainable Transport Day! As champions of the sharing economy and fervent proponents of electric vehicles, we're excited to shine a spotlight on the evolution of sustainable transport in recent years. Here are five companies at the forefront, revolutionizing the game with substantial investments and groundbreaking advancements in the transportation industry:
Amazon
Did you know that the shipping industry contributes to 20 percent of the world’s carbon emissions?
In a groundbreaking move toward sustainable shipping, Amazon, led by Laura Bowen Wegener, the Head of Ocean Shipping Decarbonization, successfully launched the world's first methanol-enabled cargo ship, the Laura Maersk. This is the world’s first Zero-Emissions Capable Cargo Ship.
This project further aligns with the company's Climate Pledge for net-zero emissions by 2040 and utilizing zero-emission shipping for at least 10% of international goods by 2030.
In addition to this, Amazon pushes sustainable transportation even further by utilizing electric vehicles to deliver more than 145 million packages in 2022, utilizing e-cargo bikes, and reducing air transport when possible.
Amtrak – Aero Trains
Amtrak is ushering in a new era of sustainable travel with its upcoming fleet of sustainable trains, combining safety, comfort, and eco-conscious features. The trains will produce 90 percent less emissions than their traditional counterparts.
Set to operate on various routes, including the Northeast Regional and Amtrak Cascades, these trains prioritize passenger well-being and environmental responsibility. With modern interiors, panoramic windows for scenic views, and improved accessibility, the trains aim to enhance the overall travel experience.
Notably, they are designed for a greener impact, boasting greater fuel efficiency and a significant reduction of particulate emissions. The trains, operating at speeds up to 125 mph, eliminate engine changes, reducing travel times and increasing efficiency.
Thomas Built Buses & Dominion Energy
Electric school buses are gaining more momentum, with just under 6,000 in use across the United States.
While cost remains a common concern for EV school buses, encouragingly, companies are collaborating to address this challenge. Notably, a partnership between Thomas Built Buses and Dominion Energy in Virginia has emerged. Dominion Energy has recently integrated 50 electric buses into Thomas Built's fleet and is committed to supporting further electric initiatives.
Thomas Built's electric vehicles, branded as the Jouley, boast a 150-mile range, contributing to a quieter and more environmentally friendly transportation option for our school children.
Plug Power
In addition to electric, companies like Plug Power are exploring other options for alternative fuel for transportation. Plug Power focuses on hydrogen solutions for zero-emissions vehicles. So far, Plug Power has deployed around 50,000 fuel cell systems for e-mobility, operating what they have dubbed the “Hydrogen Highway.”
The company offers hydrogen-powered solutions for fleet vehicles, ground support equipment, and even aerospace assets.
Uber
Uber is at the forefront of sustainable transportation, spearheading initiatives that redefine the industry. Known as one of the world’s most successful sharing-platforms, Uber is a force to be reckoned with. Here’s a recap of what Uber has done so far for sustainable transport:
- Advocate for shared resource utilization in daily transport and empower gig workers to leverage their assets
- Expand micro-mobility options through e-scooters and e-bikes
- Introduce Uber Boat, a swift and convenient ride-sharing boat with a pledge to achieve net-zero emissions by 2025
- Establish a sustainable food delivery platform with Uber Eats
- Provide eco-friendly transport alternatives like Uber Comfort Electric, Uber Green, and collaborate with local transit networks
Fluid Truck
As the first company to establish the largest medium-duty electric fleet in the US, Fluid Truck is revolutionizing what it means to build an electric fleet. The company hasn’t stopped there. Here are some milestones so far regarding Fluid Truck’s commitment to sustainable transport:
- Unveiled a user-friendly, mobile platform for seamless sharing of vehicle resources
- Shattered electric vehicle barriers by providing rentals tailored to small and medium-sized businesses
- Pioneered the Fluid Renew program, empowering businesses to list their underutilized vehicles on the platform
- Forged impactful partnerships with fellow sustainability champions, including industry giants like IKEA, OneRail, and Recycle Global Exchange.
Fluid Truck isn't just revolutionizing electric fleets; we're igniting a dynamic shift in the way we perceive and embrace sustainable transportation.
Keep up to date on our journey towards a cleaner, more electrifying future by following us @FluidTruck on our socials!
