VCC expands electric fleet in latest move to future proof skills training
In a further effort to future-proof student training within the rapidly evolving landscape of electric transportation, Vancouver Community College (VCC) has acquired the Freightliner, eCascadia, an all-electric semi-truck.
VCC is one of the first organizations in Western Canada to acquire the zero emissions semi. It will be used to train VCC students in the Heavy Mechanical Trades Foundation program on the safety and repair of heavy-duty electric equipment.
"VCC is committed to ensuring learners are gaining the skills they need so that they can reach their educational and career goals and make a positive impact in their community,” says Ajay Patel, VCC President and CEO. "As we move to break ground on our new Centre for Clean Energy and Automotive Innovation in early 2024, the eCascadia is a well-timed addition to VCC’s Heavy Mechanical Trades program.”
The trend towards electric vehicles in the transportation industry is gathering steam: organizations across North America from Loblaws (who took possession of the first eCascadia in Canada last year) to UPS to Tim Hortons, have added electric semi-trucks to their fleets this year. And with the increase of electric vehicles on the roads, heavy duty technicians with the skills and know-how to fix and safely repair electric vehicles are a must.
“Heavy mechanical technicians are already identified as one of the most in-demand trades jobs according to the 2023 BC Labour Market Outlook,” says Lucy Griffith, Acting Dean, VCC School of Trades, Technology & Design. “The addition of the eCascadia perfectly aligns with VCC’s strategic priorities by ensuring VCC students are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to meet current industry standards and the standards of the future. We are 100% committed to providing clean energy education to VCC students.”
The college’s large and growing fleet of electric vehicles gives it a competitive edge in skills training. The eCascadia joins the Volvo ECR25 (a compact electric excavator) and the Toyota Mirai, one of the first hydrogen fuel cell vehicles in the Canadian market, among other electric vehicles used to train students in the repair and maintenance of electric and fuel cell vehicles.
The eCascadia electric semi-truck offers a driving range of up to 370 kilometers and charges from 0-80% in as little as 90 minutes. The truck was acquired from VCC’s industry partner, Velocity Truck Centres.
“Velocity Truck Centres is excited to partner with a world-class educational institute like Vancouver Community College in supporting the future of student training in electric transportation," says Rod Graham, President Velocity Truck Centres. "Our company is committed to a cleaner environmental future for all British Columbians and believe we can play a key role in supporting tools and resources in better and broader education to increase the skill and the future of our trade.”
Adds Patel, “We are grateful for our invaluable industry partnership with Velocity Truck Centres who share our vision for a sustainable future. As the clean economy grows in the province, the college is making a concerted effort to invest in the training people need to pursue in-demand and rewarding careers in clean technology.”
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About Vancouver Community College
VCC has been inspiring students to reach their career and educational goals for over 55 years, offering post-secondary training in over 140 programs including bachelor's degrees, diplomas, certificates, and apprenticeships. With two campuses located Downtown and in East Vancouver, students receive hands-on instruction in culinary arts, business, design, health sciences, hospitality management, transportation trades, music, and more. Learn more at vcc.ca.
Media contact:
Carey Yada Lee
Strategic Communications Specialist
c: 236.833.3640
e: cyadalee@vcc.ca