The green energy transition is beginning in the vehicle fleet at the Port of Tacoma, with the arrival of charging stations and four new electric SUVs. 

In January, employees in the Port’s maintenance department began putting four Ford Mustang Mach-Es into service, adding Port logos to their doors. 

Soon, they’ll be used by Port employees traveling for business across the Tacoma Tideflats and beyond. 

“The Port's investment in EV infrastructure and the EV fleet is critical to our shared vision of sustainability,” said Port of Tacoma Commission President Kristin Ang. “Not only will it reduce emissions, it will enhance the air quality for our community.” 

In 2023, Port Commissioners voted to reduce emissions under the Port’s direct control to net zero by 2040, accelerating the target from 2050.  

Containerized cargo operations at the Port of Tacoma are managed by The Northwest Seaport Alliance, which is overseeing work to build a shore power system at Husky Terminal so ships can plug in and shut off their diesel engines. 

Already, electric yard handling equipment is being used to move cargo, and the NWSA is implementing the Northwest Ports Clean Air Strategy and the Zero Emission Truck Collaborative.  

“This is a key strategic priority,” Commissioner Ang said. “The Port plays an important leadership role in paving the way for a cleaner, greener economy for Pierce County.” 

To support the new electric vehicles, charging stations are in place outside the Port of Tacoma administration building.  

Rick Atkinson, the Port’s Director of Equipment Maintenance, said the range of up to 300 miles on the Mach-E’s should easily meet the needs of administrative staff.  

“We can almost drive one all week without charging it,” Atkinson said. 

Atkinson said transitioning the entire fleet of 125 vehicles, some of which are heavy-duty, will take time, and that the Port’s next EV purchases are likely to be Ford F-150 Lightning pickups. 

Port employees who are members of ILWU Local 22 maintain the fleet and are getting training on working with electric vehicles.