Electric vehicle maker Bollinger Motors is joining forces with Bergey's Truck Centers, expanding its footprint into the Mid-Atlantic region. This partnership could be a game-changer for the adoption of electric commercial trucks.
Bollinger Motors, a subsidiary of Mullen Automotive, has announced a partnership with Bergey's Truck Centers—a family-owned dealership with a long-standing reputation in the trucking industry. This move plants Bollinger firmly in Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, bringing their network to over 50 locations nationwide.
As someone who frequents Bergey's for my own truck's servicing, I've always admired their commitment to customer service and quality. Seeing them embrace electric vehicles (EVs) like Bollinger's B4 truck is both exciting and, admittedly, raises some questions for me.
The Bollinger B4 is an all-electric Class 4 truck, boasting a 158 kWh battery pack. On paper, this gives it a range of about 185 miles. But let's be real—once you factor in real-world conditions, that might drop to around 150 miles. That range makes me wonder: Is it sufficient for the day-to-day operations of businesses that rely on these trucks? Most companies would need to plan routes carefully to avoid range anxiety, and the charging time of approximately two hours with a fast DC charger could pose logistical challenges.
Comparatively, the Hummer EV sports a 200+ kWh battery, which makes me question whether the B4's battery capacity is truly adequate for commercial needs. For companies that require trucks to cover more than 75 miles one way, the downtime for charging might not be practical. It seems ideal for urban deliveries or shorter routes, but it may not fit all use cases.
That said, the partnership with Bergey's could signify a shift in the industry. Bergey's has a rich history dating back to 1924, and their endorsement of Bollinger's EVs might encourage more businesses to consider making the switch to electric. It's a step toward sustainability, and for local routes, the B4 could be a solid option.
I'm eager to see how this collaboration unfolds. Will businesses adapt to the range limitations in favor of the environmental benefits? Or will they hold off until battery technology advances further? Only time will tell, but this partnership is undoubtedly a significant milestone in the push toward electric commercial vehicles.