PGT Trucking, Locomation, and Nikola Corporation Present Innovation Showcase

PGT Trucking Inc., a dynamic multi-service transportation firm that offers a range of services including flatbed, dedicated, international, and specialized, is paving the way in addressing key challenges in the trucking industry, namely driver turnover, efficiency, and carbon emissions. In an alliance with their strategic partners, Locomation and Nikola Corporation, PGT orchestrated an Innovation Showcase on May 20, 2022.

This event, held at PGT’s corporate headquarters in Aliquippa, PA, was an exciting opportunity to display the groundbreaking transportation solutions that are poised to be the Future of FlatbedSM. This event was a testament to PGT’s commitment to continuous innovation and industry leadership.

“PGT is listening to our customers. We know their pain points. And we are taking proactive measures to find innovative shipping solutions that address these issues,” said Gregg Troian, PGT Trucking President. “Through our investments in Locomation and Nikola, we will be able to move more freight in an efficient and environmentally friendly manner.”

Event attendees had the privilege of listening to Locomation’s Co-founder and Vice President of Engineering, Michael George, who provided insightful discussions about freight optimization and the implementation of cutting-edge technology systems. Attendees were given a first-hand look at Locomation’s Autonomous Relay ConvoySM (ARC) technology, a revolutionary advancement that PGT plans to implement over the next eight years across more than 30 separate Autonomous Relay Network segments nationwide.

Nikola representatives, Jill Guenther, Customer Success Manager, and Paul Clark, Head of Sales and Dealer Operations, also addressed the audience, shedding light on Nikola’s battery-electric vehicles (BEVs), fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), and their infrastructure solutions.

Event participants were granted the unique opportunity to interact with the Nikola Tre BEV and the Mobile Charging Trailer (MCT), as well as partake in a ride-along and equipment demonstrations. This event was also a reminder of PGT’s commitment to innovation, as last fall, the company signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to lease 100 Nikola Tre FCEVs, with a rollout scheduled to begin in 2023.

“We are proud to be part of PGT’s commitment to find innovative solutions that reduce CO2 emissions and overall costs,” said Michael Lohscheller, President of Nikola Motor. “PGT’s forward-thinking approach to sustainable freight transportation is evident in its plans to implement zero-emissions technology into their operations.”

“Advanced trucking technologies help PGT to better service our customers, support our drivers and ensure our employees can perform their jobs effectively,” said Seth Stayer, PGT Trucking Manager of Applied Technology. “By implementing these new platforms, our staff can focus on the things that matter: building relationships, keeping trucks on the road and making our customers happy.”

PGT’s Future of Flatbed program is indeed a comprehensive blueprint for the future, encapsulating all forward-thinking endeavors in transportation. The program’s primary focus is on the reduction of operating costs and fuel expenses, thereby simultaneously mitigating CO2 emissions. This eco-conscious approach aligns with the ongoing global shift towards sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Furthermore, the program aims to augment capacity and utilization, thereby streamlining operations and boosting efficiency. These enhancements, coupled with the program’s focus on developing cost-effective freight rates, underscore PGT’s commitment to delivering superior customer value. Through these initiatives, the Future of Flatbed program is poised to revolutionize the transport industry, driving innovation, and fostering sustainable growth.

“Regardless of what the future may look like, whether hydrogen fueling, automation or driver assistance, PGT remains rooted in quality,” added Andrew Erin, PGT Trucking Director of Risk and Safety, and Innovation Committee Chairman. “We are a company that focuses on delivering high-quality results through high-quality relationships.”