FIRST CLASS 8 HEAVY-DUTY ELECTRIC FREIGHT TRUCK MAKES HISTORIC CROSSING OF U.S.-MEXICO BORDER

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04/11/2024 - 06:11 PM

SDG&E and Bali Express forge path to zero emissions freight transport

SAN DIEGO, April 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) and Bali Express today announced the historic crossing of a Class 8 heavy-duty electric freight truck from the U.S. into Mexico. The semi-truck made its maiden voyage into Mexico, marking a significant milestone as the binational region moves towards a net-zero future.

These dedicated trucks will utilize recently built charging infrastructure installed by SDG&E designed to provide reliable and accessible charging options for medium- to heavy-duty electric freight trucks crossing the U.S.-Mexico border.

"Today marks a historic milestone in our journey toward reducing emissions and paving the way for a cleaner energy future," said Caroline Winn, Chief Executive Officer at SDG&E. "This new electric corridor is a great example of how collaboration can create new and innovative ways to rethink how to propel our transportation systems towards electrification."

Juan Baez, owner of the San Diego-based Bali Express emphasized the importance of working together in achieving sustainability goals.

"We are thrilled to be working with SDG&E in this historic endeavor," said Baez. "By adding electric freight trucks, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also leading the way towards a more sustainable future for freight transportation on both sides of the border. We're proud to be a leader in this transition and excited about the first ever crossing."

"The historic crossing of this electric freight truck symbolizes San Diego's commitment to innovation, cross-border cooperation and our binational community," said City of San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria. "We're not just reducing emissions; we're building a cleaner future for the people who live near our border and leading the way on international trade and environmental responsibility."

The chargers were partially funded by a $200,000 grant through the California Energy Commission's Clean Transportation Program – which has provided more than $1 billion to alternative fuel and vehicle technology projects that are designed to deliver health, environmental and economic benefits to communities.

"To accommodate the transition to zero-emission trucks on both sides of the border, it's critically important we have the necessary infrastructure," said California Energy Commissioner Patty Monahan. "The California Energy Commission is helping fund projects across the state to build a better and more equitable charging infrastructure system for both cars and trucks."

San Diego County Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Nora Vargas – who is Governor Newsom's appointee to the California Air Resources Board - emphasized the importance of reducing emissions in border communities while also growing our economy.

"As a fronteriza, I am thrilled that we're moving forward with the use of bold and innovative energy technology that helps reduce air pollution, offers sustainable cross-border freight transportation, and strengthens our binational and interdependent economy," said Vargas. "I know the binational region firsthand, and this is a great example of the kind of public-private partnerships can improve air quality and promote economic prosperity for the binational region. As the Supervisor for border communities, I am proud and excited that we are moving toward a cleaner, greener and more prosperous future."

The electric charging infrastructure is a part of SDG&E's Power Your Drive for Fleets program. The program connects fleet operators with resources and financial incentives to easily and cost-effectively design and install charging infrastructure for medium- and heavy-duty fleets.

About SDG&E:
SDG&E is an innovative energy delivery company that provides increasingly clean, safe and reliable energy to better the lives of the people it serves in San Diego and southern Orange counties. The company is committed to creating a sustainable future by increasing energy delivered from low or zero-carbon sources; accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles; and investing in innovative technologies to ensure the reliable operation of the region's infrastructure for generations to come. SDG&E is a subsidiary of Sempra (NYSE: SRE). For more information, visit SDGEnews.com or connect with SDG&E on X (formerly Twitter) (@SDGE), Instagram (@SDGE) and Facebook.