Nikola Corporation proudly marked a significant milestone as IMC, the largest marine drayage company in the U.S., unveiled the inaugural livery that will adorn its fleet of 50 Nikola hydrogen fuel cell electric trucks. This milestone follows a strategic deal that has been in progress since early 2023 and was formally commemorated during the grand opening of IMC’s state-of-the-art sustainable Compton facility.
“Nikola is proud to be at the forefront of sustainable transportation alongside IMC,” said Nikola President and CEO Steve Girsky. “Their vision to transition their fleet to zero-emissions is a testament to their leadership in the drayage sector and sets a high standard for the industry. We’re honored to be aligned with them as we all work to decarbonize the industry.”
In a forward-thinking move, IMC initiated the purchase of 50 Nikola hydrogen fuel cell electric trucks through Tom’s Truck Centers, a valued member of the Nikola sales and service dealer network. This strategic deal has already brought IMC the initial batch of 10 trucks in Q423, with an additional 10 scheduled for this month. The remaining 30 are expected to be delivered by the end of 2024, solidifying IMC’s commitment to a more sustainable future.
“Our order for 50 Nikola hydrogen fuel cell electric trucks signifies our commitment to innovation and sustainability in drayage operations,” said IMC CEO Joel Henry. “We’re confident that these technology-advanced trucks will not only meet but exceed our expectations for enhanced efficiency and operational excellence.”
As a key player in hauling containers from ports to warehouses, IMC is responding to the growing demand for sustainable transportation. The deployment of these hydrogen-powered trucks will be utilized in IMC’s operations primarily in Calif., as well as in Ariz. and Nev.
In compliance with pending California regulations mandating that all new drayage trucks registered must be zero-emission vehicles in an effort to phase out fossil-fuel trucks from ports by 2035, Nikola’s hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles offer an immediate and viable solution. Assisted by Nikola’s Southern California dealer, Tom’s Truck Centers, IMC secured significant incentives through CARB’s Hybrid and Zero-Emission Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project (“HVIP”) program and Port of Los Angeles’ Clean Truck Fund Rate.