In a move to support the decarbonisation of supply chains across Latin America, Maersk has partnered with local transportation provider Sotraser Chile to introduce electric trucks.
Maersk and Sotraser will have available two types of electric trucks:
- Volvo FH Electric and FM Electric: Equipped with 540-kWh batteries, these trucks boast an impressive range of approximately 300 km per charge.
- Foton EAuman 2554: With a 350-kWh battery, this model achieves a range of around 220 km per charge.
These electric trucks can transport between 24 and 25 tons of cargo, meeting Chilean legal standards for weight and axle limits, and ensuring performance on par with traditional diesel trucks, according to a statement.
“As land transport demand grows, decreasing emissions solutions become crucial. This milestone reflects our commitment to reducing emissions across Latin America,” said Dean Rodin, Managing Director for the West Coast of South America at Maersk.
In Santiago, the operation features 20 simultaneous charging stations with a total installed capacity of 1,200 kW. Utilizing split chargers of 600 kW, the setup allows for flexible energy management, with charging capacities ranging from 60 kW to 240 kW per connector.
Importantly, the operation is powered by 100% renewable energy certified under the International Renewable Energy Certificates (I-RECs).
These electric trucks are designed for urban, interurban, and port routes. Current routes include high-activity areas within the Metropolitan Region, urban distribution, and key interurban connections such as Santiago – Viña del Mar and Santiago – San Antonio. In Antofagasta, electric trucks are already operational towards the Port of Mejillones, transporting chemicals for the mining industry.
“Chile’s potential for electromobility in heavy-duty trucking is promising, with ongoing projects showcasing the benefits of electric trucks,” pointed out Alexis Rodriguez, Head of Energy Transition Execution for Latin America at Maersk.
“Integrating our 100% electric fleet into Maersk’s operations is not just a milestone for Sotraser — it is a clear signal that the future of logistics is already underway. We are proud to be part of this transformation alongside a global leader like Maersk, and we are confident that this is just the first step on a journey we will build together, decreasing emissions and driving more efficient transport solutions for Chile and South America,” commented Pedro Peña Staub, Electromobility Manager at Sotraser.
During the pilot phase, the companies successfully implemented a fully electric transportation operation, covering over 8,400 kilometers across 31 trips on routes such as interurban connections within Santiago, and Santiago – San Antonio.
