Trucking Fleet Manager Testifies to Congress on Challenges of Vehicle Electrification

Taki Darakos, PITT OHIO’s fleet manager who oversees the acquisition and maintenance of 1,550 company-owned tractors and box trucks, testified before Congress on the technological, operational, and financial challenges fleets face as federal and state regulations mandate the adoption of battery-electric trucks.

“After meticulous evaluation and planning with our truck manufacturer, we put into service our first battery-electric trucks,” Darakos said. “Although battery-electric trucks show promise in certain applications, they are not ready for broad deployment due to technology limitations.”

PITT OHIO is a freight transportation provider that operates in 14 states out of 25 terminals and employs more than 3,500 people. As the Vice President of Vehicle Maintenance and Fleet Service at PITT OHIO, Darakos shared his extensive, real-world experience with the House Subcommittee on Highways and Transit.

Two years ago, PITT OHIO received its first battery-electric trucks. Darakos told Congress that despite his company taking a proactive approach and making a concerted effort to adopt this technology, the increased weight, prolonged charging periods, and minimal driving range have proved to be significant challenges. Additionally, each battery-electric truck costs up to 3.5 times more than a clean-diesel equivalent.
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