Janus Electric Enters NA Market With $1.25M Pilot, First Battery-Swapping Trucks in the US

Australian electric heavy-duty truck transportation company Janus Electric is making its first commercial move into the North American market with a $1.25 million pilot agreement with Ability Trimodal Transportation Services. The deal brings two battery-swapping Class 8 prime movers and a Janus Charge and Change Station to Southern California, marking the company’s debut in the U.S.

CEO Lex Forsyth announced the news to Proactive in September. He explained that these will be the first battery-swapping trucks in the North American market. By enabling rapid four-minute battery swaps, Janus eliminates the need for tethered charging, reducing infrastructure demands and easing strain on the grid—a particular advantage in California, where electricity supply can be inconsistent.

The pilot targets the 26,000-strong drayage fleet servicing the Long Beach and Los Angeles ports. Forsyth noted that Janus’ model is ideal for this high-frequency, short-haul environment. The project also supports California’s strict emissions mandates, which now limit port access to zero-emission trucks.

Janus’ Clean Energy drivetrain has received CARB certification, making the fleet eligible for up to $90,000 per vehicle in state conversion rebates. The pilot will serve as a proof-of-concept, with Ability Trimodal already indicating plans to scale if the initial units meet performance expectations.

This entry positions Janus Electric at the forefront of innovative, zero-emission logistics solutions in North America.

Janus Electric Pioneers Zero-Emission Transport in Australia

Janus Electric is delivering a world-first solution to electrify Australia’s road transport network. Leveraging Australian engineering, the company converts and electrifies prime movers of any make, offering a cleaner, smarter, and more efficient alternative to diesel trucks.

At the heart of Janus Electric’s innovation is its exchangeable battery technology. Batteries can be swapped in just three minutes at Janus Electric Charge & Change Stations, which use renewable energy from solar and wind. The system allows three-way energy transfer from grid to battery, battery to battery, and battery to grid, enabling renewable energy storage and helping to balance supply while reducing surges and outages.

Since 2020, Janus Electric has proven its technology through full conversions, beginning with a T403 Kenworth. The company is now expanding trials with linehaul, mining, and local transport providers. In partnership with logistics company Qube and mining firm OzMinerals, the Vision Electric trial will test the world’s largest electric truck across Australia’s Outback, reducing emissions in heavy transport and resources.

Converting diesel trucks to Janus Electric technology is cost-competitive with rebuilding an engine, while offering up to 60 percent lower operational costs. Batteries provide 400 to 600 km of range, with a lifespan of up to eight years. Rapid swaps save time compared with traditional refuelling, while eliminating vibration, noise, and harmful fumes creates safer, more comfortable conditions for drivers.

Janus Electric’s fleet currently includes Kenworth, Freightliner, Mack, and Western Star prime movers operating across New South Wales and Queensland. With renewable-powered charging stations and modular battery systems, Janus Electric is redefining efficiency, sustainability, and safety for Australia’s road transport industry, proving that zero-emission heavy vehicles are not just feasible, but practical for everyday operations.