4 Gen Logistics set to achieve 100% zero-tailpipe emissions

California has long been at the forefront of sustainability, setting ambitious goals to combat climate change. Leading the charge in the transportation sector, 4 Gen Logistics – a pioneering California-based drayage company – is accelerating this vision. With their own commitment to achieving a fully zero-emission fleet by the end of 2025, they are turning their sustainability dream into reality with the support of Volvo Trucks and Volvo Financial Services (VFS).
 

4 Gen Logistics plays a vital role in moving goods through one of the nation’s busiest logistics hubs, handling both imports and exports through its logistics centers in Long Beach and Rialto. With a history spanning over 80 years, the business began in 1943 as Duncan & Son Lines, focusing on intrastate transport. Today, the fourth-generation leadership under David Duncan continues to push the company forward.
 

The company’s transition to electric began with Volvo LIGHTS, a project led by Volvo Trucks, VFS and the South Coast Air Quality Management District from 2019 to 2022. This initiative provided a roadmap for integrating battery-electric trucks at scale. “When we partnered with VFS, we believed in the potential of this emerging technology,” says Brad Bayne, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at 4 Gen Logistics. The company currently manages a fleet of 79 trucks which are already zero-emission.

Volvo’s support extends beyond financing to include infrastructure development. With phase two of their charging infrastructure underway, 4 Gen Logistics is enhancing operational efficiency. Strategically placed charging stations, including opportunity charging points, will maximize fleet uptime and extend vehicle range. James Barker, Territory Finance Manager at VFS, sees great potential in 4 Gen Logistics’ early adoption strategy. “They are ahead of the curve, and in five years, they will be one of the most knowledgeable fleets in managing electric trucks,” he says.
 

The transition to zero-emission vehicles has also been seamless for 4 Gen’s drivers. Bayne comments that “beyond sustainability, the benefits include reduced noise pollution and lower maintenance costs. The smooth acceleration, the uninterrupted torque, the quietness – our drivers just loved it. So, we said, ‘Why not order 40 more of those?’” The 41 VNR Electric trucks currently cover up to 240 miles per shift across two daily driver shifts, demonstrating the viability of zero-emission drayage operations.
 

Looking ahead, 4 Gen Logistics remains committed to achieving a 100% zero-emission fleet by 2025. With Volvo's ongoing support and a shared vision for a greener future, the company is poised to set a benchmark in sustainable drayage operations.