There were many new transportation updates in the shipping industry last month. Check out some of the top stories and transportation updates of October 2020!
Trending Transportation Updates: October 2020
Port infrastructure gets a $220 million award from DOT
The U.S. Department of Transportation granted $220 million to develop better port infrastructure. These developments include updates to warehouse facilities for freight shipping. The last round of grants embodies 18 projects in 15 states.
The Port Infrastructure Development Program is authorized by the National Defense Authorization Act and is called to help better serve freight transportation needs. The program suggests operational and capital financing, strategic planning, and assistance in project management. “This $220 million in federal grants will improve America’s ports,” Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao said. “Nearly half the projects are located in Opportunity Zones, which were established to revitalize economically distressed communities.” Read more about this story here.
Amazon presents the new electric delivery van
Amazon revealed a model of one of three electric trucks in terms of partnership with Rivian truck manufacturing startup. The retail mogul plans to obtain 10,000 of the Rivian electric delivery vans running on highways worldwide by 2022.
Rivian CEO and founder RJ Scaringe stated in a press release the delivery truck “is not just electric,” but is also focused on safety and functionality. The delivery van includes a large windshield, exterior cameras with a multi-angled 360-degree view, hands-free navigation, three levels of shelving, and a cabin for easy package retrieval. It has brake lights wrapping around the rear of the vehicle to warn of frequent stops. Additionally, the delivery van is equipped with brake lights winding around the rear of the vehicle to prevent frequent stops. Read more about this story here.
Volvo gets a $21.7 million grant from EPA for 70 electric trucks
Volvo Trucks will use 70 Class 8 electric heavy-duty vehicles in Southern California after getting $21.7 million in air-quality improvement grants. The award is provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) and the South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD). Additionally, Volvo is sharing the program’s cost. “This grant provides Volvo Trucks with an excellent opportunity to further expedite the success of the ecosystem designed through the Volvo LIGHTS project to support the wide-scale deployment of battery-electric heavy-duty trucks,” VTNA President Peter Voorhoeve stated in the latest press release. Read more about this story here.
