Electric truck makes maiden voyage to Mexico

MEXICO - San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) and Bali Express have announced the maiden voyage to Mexico of a U.S. Class 8 heavy-duty electric truckload.

According to the utility company, the move has marked an important milestone as the binational region moves toward a net zero future.

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

Caroline Winn, Executive Director of SDG&E, said this new electric corridor is an example of how collaboration can create new and innovative ways to rethink how to move transportation systems toward electrification.

Juan Baez, owner of San Diego-based Bali Express, stressed the importance of working together to achieve sustainability goals.

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

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

The chargers were partially funded with 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 designed to bring health, environmental and economic benefits to communities.

The electric charging infrastructure is 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 vehicle fleets.