BlackRock, Daimler & NextEra: Powering Electric Freight
Greenlane, a US charging infrastructure developer backed by BlackRock, Daimler Truck and NextEra Energy, is expanding its electric truck corridor network in the US.
This venture targets one of the country’s busiest freight highways to address a gap in charging facilities for long-haul electric trucks.
The company, which operates as a US$675m joint venture, is building its second commercial EV corridor, linking Southern California to Phoenix via Interstate 10.
Expanding charging access for heavy freight
The new corridor follows a strategic partnership with Windrose Technology, an electric truck original equipment manufacturer (OEM).
Windrose plans to produce 2,000 electric trucks in 2026 and scale to 10,000 by 2027 for global markets.
The company intends to integrate these vehicles into Greenlane’s growing public charging network, providing an operational model for fleets seeking to shift from diesel to electric.
Patrick Macdonald-King, CEO of Greenlane, explains: "Our second corridor was strategically selected to best support the carriers and shippers who keep our economy moving.
“Windrose's remarkable achievements during testing demonstrate that our high-performance charging network can handle the most demanding freight operations, giving us confidence that this I-10 corridor will serve as a critical backbone for zero-emission freight.
“By establishing charging infrastructure along key transportation arteries, we're providing the foundation fleets need to scale their electric operations."
The corridor will include the existing Colton charging hub as well as planned sites in Blythe, California and Greater Phoenix, Arizona.
Proving long-haul EV capability
Windrose’s R700 Class 8 truck has completed single-charge hauls from Colton to Buckeye, Arizona, and Las Vegas, routes of nearly 300 miles with a gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of 74,420lbs (33,756kg).
These journeys were completed with a 12% battery reserve, highlighting the trucks’ suitability for long-distance freight.
Charging trials at the Colton facility recorded peak rates of 772kW using dual-gun charging technology, cutting downtime and supporting the quick turnarounds required in freight operations.
Wen Han, Founder and CEO of Windrose Technology, says: "Achieving nearly 300 miles with a GCWR of 74,420lbs (33,756Kg) on a single charge with 12% battery left proves that electric long-haul trucking isn’t just theory, it’s proven real-world performance.
“This is what happens when innovative vehicle platforms meet world-class charging infrastructure. Our next step is to prove diesel parity in the United States, Europe, Oceania and South America, as we have already proven in China."
Windrose will use the Colton hub as its US base, deploying trucks for pilot customers along both the I-10 and I-15 corridors.
Supply chain impact and early adopters
One early customer on these routes is Nevoya, a carrier specialising in electric transport solutions for shippers and third-party logistics providers.
Nevoya will operate battery-electric trucks on the I-10 and I-15 routes, using the Colton centre for both charging and driver support.
John Verdon, Chief Commercial Officer at Nevoya, notes: "Greenlane's I-10 charging network creates the infrastructure breakthrough that electric trucking needs and Nevoya is positioned to capitalise on it.
“As we launch operations on the I-10, this partnership allows us to demonstrate that long-haul electric trucking is not just possible; it’s practical, scalable and the future of freight."
The Colton flagship, opened in April 2025, includes more than 40 high-speed chargers, with 12 pull-through bays for large trucks and 29 bobtail lanes for medium-duty EVs.
Facilities also provide restrooms, WiFi, covered parking and office space, all accessible 24/7 with on-site security.
For investors, BlackRock’s role extends beyond Greenlane. Its iShares range offers funds such as the Self-Driving EV and Tech ETF and the Electric Vehicles and Driving Technology UCITS ETF, targeting companies across EV manufacturing, battery technology and autonomous driving.
The Sustainable Energy Fund focuses on renewable energy, energy efficiency and supporting infrastructure, excluding coal, oil and gas exploration.
These financial vehicles aim to support the global transition to low-emission transport while offering exposure to companies advancing supply chain electrification.
