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 its own commitment to achieving a fully zero-emission fleet by the end of 2025, 4 Gen is turning its 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 more than 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,” said Brad Bayne, vice president of strategic initiatives at 4 Gen Logistics, which currently includes a fleet of 79 trucks that are already zero-emission.
Volvo’s support extends beyond financing to include infrastructure development. With phase two of its 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,” said Barker.
The transition to zero-emission vehicles has also been seamless for 4 Gen’s drivers. According to Bayne, beyond the obvious sustainability benefits, others 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?’” added Bayne.
The 41Volvo VNR Electric trucks currently cover up to 240 miles per shift across two daily driver shifts, demonstrating the viability of zero-tailpipe emission drayage operations.
Looking ahead, 4 Gen Logistics remains committed to achieving a 100% zero-emission fleet by the end of 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.
“We’re proud to be part of the Volvo family and excited for the future,” said Bayne. “The journey from vision to reality is happening now, and we couldn’t be happier with our progress.”
By embracing innovation and strategic partnerships, 4 Gen Logistics is not just preparing for California’s regulatory future, they are leading the logistics industry forward. Their journey stands as a powerful example of how vision, innovation, and collaboration can turn sustainability dreams into operational success.
