APM Terminals (APMT) Pier 400 has deployed the largest fleet of electric terminal tractors (ETTs) in the Port of Los Angeles, marking a notable step in its decarbonisation efforts while advancing the skills of the ILWU workforce.

The ETTs were delivered with training coordinated in partnership with electric vehicle manufacturer Orange EV and labour and maintenance partner Pacific Crane Maintenance Company (PCMC).

The initial deployment comprises 10 fully commissioned ETTs, with another 10 expected by the end of July. This replaces nearly 30 per cent of Pier 400’s diesel terminal tractor fleet.

In May, Pier 400 sponsored three days of paid training for 21 ILWU Local 13 union mechanics employed by PCMC. The sessions, led by Orange EV technicians, covered safety protocols, diagnostics, and routine maintenance for the new electric tractors, combining classroom learning with practical applications.

In collaboration with its workforce, the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA), and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), APMT is investing in skills programmes focused on the operation and maintenance of zero-emission cargo handling equipment.

The electric terminal tractors are manufactured by Orange EV, a Kansas City-based firm that developed the first commercially deployed 100 per cent electric Class 8 terminal trucks in the US.

To date, Orange EV has deployed more than 1,400 trucks across over 300 fleets, with performance records surpassing 22.6 million miles and 8.3 million hours of operation. The vehicles comply with Build America, Buy America standards and are supported through a domestic service and parts supply network.

The project is also contributing to wider industry training efforts. The PMA intends to establish an electric tractor training programme at the ILWU-PMA Maintenance & Repair Training Center, increasing access to hands-on instruction for union mechanics. Managers and instructors from the centre took part in Pier 400’s training to gain experience with the equipment and develop future training plans.

20 electric units are expected to be operational by the end of July.

“This is not just an investment in equipment, it’s an investment in the upskilling of the workforce,” said Jon Poelma, Managing Director of APM Terminals Pier 400. “Our partnership with PCMC is foundational to our success, and this rollout reflects how we move forward together. As we decarbonise Pier 400, we’re not only deploying new technology—we’re upskilling our workforce through hands-on training and taking significant steps in our commitment to cleaner air for our community.”

“This training has given our mechanics both the confidence and capability to support the port’s clean energy future,” said Joe Gregorio Jr., President and Chief Operations Officer, PCMC. “We’re proud to be part of an effort that values upskilling and union craftsmanship alongside much needed progress to decarbonise supply chains. PCMC is dedicated to supporting both APM Terminals and our mechanics in the shift to decarbonise operations.”

Published: June 9, 2025/Port Technology International