In our first Best Of Issue, Green Living Magazine is proud to acknowledge the individuals and businesses that have made a conscious and sustainable impact on the community — all as voted on by readers. Arizona has experienced substantial growth in recent years, and, as such, the focus on sustainability and living more healthful lives has also been in the spotlight. Here, we invite you to learn more about the movers and shakers in the green living space. Congratulations to our winners!
Nikola Corporation has come a long way since its simple beginnings in 2015 when a group of visionaries came together in Salt Lake City to globally transform the transportation industry. Today, this Phoenix-based company is a leading designer and manufacturer of Class 8 battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell electric semi-trucks and the energy infrastructure needed to support them.
The company’s mission is to reduce the carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions of the heavy-duty trucking sector, earning Nikola a spot in our Best Of feature. “The future of mobility is emission-free, and Nikola is working on the right solutions here and now to accomplish this vision of a sustainable future,” says President Nikola Corporation, Michael Lohscheller. “Simply put, Nikola seeks to pioneer solutions for a zero-emissions world.”
The company chose to base its manufacturing facility in Coolidge thanks to the outstanding industrial infrastructure within the region. “The decision was further solidified by the tireless support of state and local representatives, as well as access to key talent and the infrastructure available to scale with the ambitious plans and growth trajectory Nikola has set forth,” Lohscheller says.
Part of the company’s sustainability practices include building a more comprehensive approach beyond emissions from the tailpipe. “Our approach also includes manufacturing and operating in a sustainable way,” says Nikola Global Head, Manufacturing Mark Duchesne. “We are building programs to improve our energy efficiency and to move toward zero waste, and to ensure sustainable use of resources like water and raw materials.”
As a company, Nikola understands the impact of climate change and pollutants on every aspect of our lives. “This is what drives our employees and other stakeholders as we continue providing proof points that sustainability is good for the planet, our communities and business,” Nikola Global Head, ESG Elizabeth Fretheim says. “Activities like energy efficiency and zero -waste can drive lower costs and help implement mitigation strategies to help business longevity and adaptability.”
Serial production for the Nikola Tre battery-electric trucks began in April. Additionally, the validation and testing of the beta hydrogen fuel cell trucks has begun and is scheduled to progress through the first half of 2023, followed by the start of serial production planned in the second half of 2023. www.nikolamotor.com
