New York City Deploys Volvo VNR Electric Trucks for Food Rescue Operations

City Harvest acquired three Volvo VNR Electric semi trucks in September 2026 as part of the Bronx is Breathing initiative, aimed at reducing air and noise pollution in the South Bronx area adjacent to major freight corridors. Each VNR Electric features a 565 kWh battery pack and 340 kW electric motor generating over 4,000 lb-ft of torque, capable of hauling loads up to 82,000 lbs across ranges of approximately 275 miles per charge.

The trucks are equipped with battery-electric transport refrigeration units, enabling zero-tailpipe emissions during food rescue and distribution operations throughout New York City's five boroughs. The purchase received backing from the New York Clean Transportation Prizes program, a broader initiative encompassing eight Volvo Group vehicles dedicated to food distribution, waste operations, and local food deliveries exceeding 250,000 lbs daily.

Charging infrastructure will be provided by a public freight-focused charging hub under development by MN8 Energy at the Hunts Point Food Distribution Center, with operations anticipated in 2029. The facility will include 32 DC fast-charging stalls for Class 8 heavy-duty trucks and 10 Level 2 chargers. City Harvest operates a central role in New York's food rescue ecosystem, connecting surplus food from retailers, farms, manufacturers and restaurants to community food programs annually.