Episode 29 | The Catalyst Series: Electrifying Drayage: A Trucker’s Real-World Story
Episode 29 | The Catalyst Series: Electrifying Drayage: A Trucker’s Real-World Story
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When discussions about freight decarbonization take place, they often focus on large corporations, global supply chains, and ambitious climate targets. But what does decarbonization look like from the perspective of a small trucking company?
In a recent episode of Smart Freight Conversations, Andy Golding, Director of Strategic Services at Smart Freight Centre, spoke with Jennie Abarca, Owner of King Fio Trucking Company in Southern California. Her story offers a practical look at what it takes to electrify freight operations, overcome industry barriers, and build a zero-emissions trucking business from the ground up.
Why Drayage Is a Natural Fit for Electrification
King Fio Trucking operates primarily in the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, moving shipping containers between ports, warehouses, and nearby destinations.
Because most drayage routes are relatively short, electric trucks are particularly well suited to this type of operation. For Jennie, electrification was not only a business decision—it was also a personal one.
As a lifelong resident of Long Beach and a self-described climate enthusiast, she wanted to reduce emissions in the community where she lives and raise her children.
Today [2026], King Fio Trucking operates 35 trucks, including 11 battery electric vehicles, with plans to continue expanding its zero-emission fleet.
Taking the Leap Into Electric Trucks
Making the transition was not always easy.
Jennie described how difficult it was to find support as a small trucking company looking to purchase electric trucks. It wasn't until she connected with partners who understood both the technology and available incentives that she was able to move forward with her first electric vehicles.
Since then, the experience has largely exceeded expectations.
The trucks have proven reliable, charging has been straightforward, and drivers have quickly embraced the technology. In fact, demand from drivers became so strong that there is now a waiting list of employees who want to operate the electric trucks.
For many drivers, the quieter ride and reduced physical strain compared to diesel vehicles have become significant advantages.
The Missing Piece: Customer Demand
One of the most powerful insights from the conversation was that technology is not the biggest barrier.
According to Jennie, one of the greatest challenges is finding customers willing to actively support low-emission freight solutions. Despite growing corporate sustainability commitments, many carriers that invest in electric trucks still struggle to secure the long-term business needed to justify those investments.
For small operators, collaboration between shippers, sustainability teams, and logistics providers remains essential for scaling zero-emission freight.
As Jennie explained, trucking companies can put electric trucks on the road, but they need customers willing to use them.
Why Electrification Makes Business Sense
While environmental benefits were a key motivation, Jennie also highlighted the business case for electrification.
Unlike diesel fuel, electricity prices are generally less exposed to geopolitical events and fuel market volatility. This creates greater cost predictability for trucking operators and provides more control over operating expenses.
For trucking companies facing rising diesel costs, electrification offers both environmental and operational advantages.
Looking Ahead
Jennie's goal is ambitious: to build the largest zero-emissions trucking company serving the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach.
Her story demonstrates that freight decarbonization is not only being driven by multinational corporations. Small businesses are already proving that electric freight can work in real-world operations today.
The technology exists. The trucks are on the road. The challenge now is creating the partnerships and demand needed to scale adoption across the industry.
Listen to the full episode of Smart Freight Conversations to hear Jennie's story and learn more about the future of electric freight and drayage operations. Enroll in the courses below to learn more.