Trucking Efficiency Roundup: Fleets add electric construction trucks, step vans, yard tractors

Mercedes-Benz opens orders for eArocs 400 electric construction truck

Mercedes-Benz Trucks will begin sales of the battery-electric eArocs 400 this month (April 2026), targeting urban and near-road construction applications with ranges up to 240 km (149 miles). The truck features two LFP battery packs, up to 400 kW charging, and is designed for full-day operation without intermediate charging.

“With the new battery‑electric eArocs 400, we are enabling locally CO2-free operations even in demanding construction environments,” Stina Fagerman, head of marketing, sales, and services at Mercedes-Benz Trucks, said. “The vehicle combines the robustness required with an efficient electric drive system, covering key use cases in near‑road construction. This supports our customers in sustainably advancing and future‑proofing their fleets.”

Production is set for Q3 2026 in Germany, with availability in 13 EU markets and configurations up to 44 tonnes for applications like dump and mixer bodies. The truck integrates components from the eActros lineup, delivering at least 50% greater energy efficiency than diesel models. Advanced safety systems, an 800V architecture, and durable construction design support performance in demanding job-site conditions. Read more…

Workhorse secures 100-unit electric step van order from Purolator fleet

Workhorse Group recently secured a purchase order from Purolator for 100 fully electric step vans, with deliveries scheduled throughout 2026. The order will double the number of Workhorse vehicles in Purolator’s fleet and builds on prior purchases following Workhorse’s merger with Motiv Electric Trucks.

“Purolator has a long-standing commitment to adopting new and innovative technologies to make their fleet more efficient and sustainable, and we are honored to continue to support them,” Scott Griffith, CEO at Workhorse, stated. “This is Purolator’s fourth order over a number of years and an important next step in our long-standing partnership.”

Workhorse has delivered more than 1,100 commercial electric vehicles that have driven over 20 million miles. Its Indiana manufacturing facility can produce more than 5,000 vehicles annually and supports a growing base of large fleet customers across North America. Read more…

GLS Canada deploys Orange EV terminal tractors to cut emissions at logistics hubs

GLS Canada recently deployed Orange EV HUSK-e Class 8 electric terminal tractors at its Montreal, Toronto, and Winnipeg facilities to support decarbonization goals. The trucks are expected to eliminate 80 to 90 tons of CO2 each compared to diesel models while delivering high uptime across operations.

“We are proud to integrate four Orange EV electric shunters into our fleet in Montreal, Toronto, and Winnipeg,” Mélanie Camara, director of sustainability at GLS, said. “This investment is part of our decarbonization journey in line with the Science Based Targets initiative and reflects our continuous commitment to reducing emissions, improving energy efficiency, and building a decarbonized operation for our employees, customers, and communities.”

The deployment reflects a broader partnership between GLS Canada and Orange EV to advance low-carbon logistics operations. The initiative highlights how electric yard trucks can meet operational demands while supporting sustainability targets across Canadian freight networks. Read more…