Wabash Secures $1.6M in Grants to Decarbonize Commercial Transportation

Wabash has partnered with the University of Delaware’s Center for Composite Materials to decarbonize the commercial transportation industry. Alongside the partnership, Wabash has secured a $1.6 million grant award from the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO).

Wabash is planning a three year project focused on integrating high-efficiency solar energy into refrigerated trailers and truck bodies. If successful, it could be an important component in making zero-emission mid-mile transportation a commercially viable option.

“This project has the potential to revolutionize refrigerated transport by reducing reliance on the electrical grid and minimizing overall emissions,” said Michael Bodey, director of technology discovery and innovation at Wabash. “While many of today’s zero-emission products focus on tailpipe emissions, they still draw power from energy grids, which often rely on non-renewable sources. Our goal is to offer a truly green solution—a well-to-wheel approach—that accounts for the full life cycle of energy consumption, from production to usage.”

Wabash will use its proprietary EcoNex™ Technology, a composite material designed to enhance thermal efficiency and reduce energy consumption, while the University of Delaware will contribute its proprietary TuFF technology, which utilizes recycled aerospace-grade carbon fiber, to strengthen and lighten the trailers and truck bodies.

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