Truck Tech

The battery landscape is shifting, and the stakes for domestic manufacturing have never been higher. In this episode of Truck Tech, host Thomas Wasson sits down with Dave Rubin, Head of Policy at Proterra, to unpack the complex realities of building commercial EV batteries in the U.S. From strict "Build America, Buy America" (BABA) compliance rules to the strategic use of friendshoring with allies like Japan and South Korea, they explore how federal mandates and tax incentives are reshaping the supply chain. Tune in as they discuss: BABA Explained: What does "Build America, Buy America" actually require for battery manufacturers?  Supply Chain Realities: Can the U.S. move from buying "cookies" to making them from scratch, and where do we currently stand on raw material processing?  Strategic Friendshoring: How partnerships with allied nations are helping bridge the gap while domestic capacity ramps up.  Policy Impacts: The role of the 45X tax credit and trade policies in driving investment toward the U.S. "Battery Belt."  Proterra’s Latest Moves: An update on Proterra’s integration with the Volvo Group and their new H223 high-energy density battery pack.  Whether you're tracking the EV revolution or navigating the new rules of American manufacturing, this episode offers a deep dive into the policies powering the future of commercial transportation. Follow the Truck Tech Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Truck Tech, we catch up with John Harris, co-founder and CEO of Harbinger to dive into their recent Series C round, their big order with Fedex, and what's been going on in the medium duty EV truck space. Follow the Truck Tech Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Thomas Wasson on this special episode of Truck Tech as he travels to the Michelin Proving Ground to put the all-new Volvo VNL to the ultimate test!We explore every angle of this cutting-edge tractor, from its revolutionary aerodynamic design (including that slick, wedge-shaped nose!) to the advanced safety and driver-assist technologies.What's in the Video: Track Test Drive: Thomas takes the VNL out on two different tracks to experience the smooth ride and test the performance of the Volvo 13-speed transmission while pulling a heavy load. Adaptive Cruise Control Demo: Watch as we test the smart, Level 2 safety features, including the camera-radar fusion system and the incredible stop-and-go functionality in a simulated traffic scenario. Deep Dive on Fuel Efficiency: We interview Volvo team members about the design philosophy and the impact of features like the 6x2 configuration with a liftable axle, which can save up to 3% in fuel costs! Real-World Driver Review: Get insights from Joel Morrow of Alpha Drivers Trucking, a long-time Volvo customer who is hitting 12+ MPG in his custom "Purple Haze II" VNL. The Ultimate Sleeper Review: Thomas spends the night in the premium cab, giving a full tour of the spacious living environment, including the mini-fridge, microwave, storage nooks, and testing the quiet, battery-powered AC unit. This is a must-watch for fleet managers, owner-operators, and anyone interested in the future of trucking technology!Don't forget to like and subscribe for more Truck Tech!#VolvoVNL #TruckReview #SemiTruck #FuelEfficiency #AdaptiveCruiseControl #TruckTech #MichelinProvingGround #SleeperCab #TruckingLife Follow the Truck Tech Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The push for fleet electrification is running into a massive roadblock: the grid. Thomas Wasson is joined by Tyler Phillipi, CEO of Optigrid, to discuss the immense challenges of infrastructure, grid strain, and the costly delays facing fleets trying to go electric. Tyler dives into the technology behind their new all-in-one charging solution, the Orange Juicer, a battery-integrated DC fast charger that avoids massive construction projects and long waits for utility upgrades. They explore how this "best in a box" approach is helping fleets get the juice they need, stay online, and make the transition to electric a reality. Follow the Truck Tech Podcast Other FreightWaves Shows Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if your reefer unit was completely silent and produced zero emissions? What if your trailer could tell you it needed a repair weeks before a breakdown ever happened? The future of transport refrigeration is here, and it's quieter, smarter, and more efficient than ever before.In this episode, Thomas Wasson sits down with a team from Thermo King to pull back the curtain on the groundbreaking technologies changing the game for fleets. We're talking about the shift to all-electric power and the incredible rise of intelligent, connected trailers that offer a 360-degree view of your assets. How can this technology prevent costly downtime, protect valuable cargo, and improve your bottom line? Tune in to find out how the industry is getting a massive upgrade. Follow the Truck Tech PodcastOther FreightWaves Shows  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices