Terex Utilities introduced the industry’s first all-electric bucket truck at the Electric Utility Fleet Managers Conference (EUFMC). The company also announced the first nine customers to receive these new Terex Optima 55-ft aerial devices. The HyPowerTM SmartPTO by Viatec powers the new Terex Optima; it’s mounted on an International Class 6/7 medium-duty electric chassis.
Joe Caywood, marketing and product management director, says Xcel Energy will take delivery of its first unit later this month. “Many utilities are anxious to jump start their progress toward achieving sustainable fleets,” Caywood says. “The response from the market has been immediate, with Xcel Energy committing to the first.”
Sangram Bhosale of Xcel Energy, says the company put forth a vision to electrify all light-duty vehicles by 2030. It also aims to electrify 30% of its medium-duty fleet by that time. Bhosale says its thrills the company to partner with Terex-International to operate the first all-electric bucket truck in the US. The partnership helps Xcel Energy deliver on its electrification goals—a companion to its vision to provide carbon-free electricity to its customers by 2050, Bhosale says.
PARTNERING FOR THE FUTURE
“By combining SmartPTO technology with the International® eMV™ Series electric chassis from Navistar, Terex Utilities was able to bring this electric bucket truck to customers two years ahead of industry projections,” Caywood says. With a 135-mile driving range and the ability to operate the bucket for a full workday on a single charge, the electric Terex Optima 55 with the International eMV Series truck is ideal for electric distribution line work, while making zero emissions at job site a reality.
Debbie Shust, vice president, medium duty truck business, Navistar, says the company proudly supports Terex in its electric vehicle adoption. The partnership demonstrates a collaboration that provides a vehicle performance solution as well as helping meet sustainability goals, Shust says.
Nine utilities of all sizes from across the US and Canada made early commitments with orders prior to EUFMC. Terex will deliver the first 10 units in 2022. The other utilities receiving units will include: Oncor Electric Company, Central Hudson Gas & Electric, CenterPoint Energy, PNM Resources, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, Con Edison, San Diego Gas & Electric, and SaskPower.
Find out more, visit www.terex.com.
