United Rentals to add 500 electric vehicles to fleet

The purchase agreement initially includes orders for 500 F-150 Lightning trucks and 30 E-Transit vans. Photo: United Rentals

As part of its corporate goal to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions intensity of its business by 35% by 2030, equipment rental giant United Rentals Inc. announces an agreement with Ford Pro, Ford’s global vehicle services and distribution business, to acquire all-electric trucks and vans for its North American rental and company fleets.

“We’re pleased to demonstrate leadership in the use of 100% electric vehicles in the construction and industrial rental sectors,” stated Matthew Flannery, chief executive officer, United Rentals, in announcing the investment.

“We’re committed to helping our rental customers meet their greenhouse gas reduction goals by integrating more sustainable solutions into our fleet.

“This investment expands our strategic partnership with Ford and reflects our dual commitment to alternative energy solutions for our customers and operations.”

The agreement initially includes orders for 500 of Ford’s all-new F-150 Lightning trucks, which the company just began delivering to customers, as well as 30 E-Transit vans. Of these, 120 trucks and all 30 vans will be delivered in 2022 for use by United Rentals customers on construction and industrial jobsites, as well as by the company’s sales, service and delivery personnel.

The Ford Lightning trucks and E-Transit vans will be available to United Rentals customers for use on construction and industrial jobsites. Photo: United Rentals

According to United Rentals, the F-150 Lightning was selected due to its maximum target range of 320 miles and maximum towing capacity of 10,000 lb.

The all-electric E-Transit commercial cargo van has a target range of 126 miles. Both models come with Pro Power On-board and various connectivity features, such as the Lightning’s Intelligent Back-Up Power, which is capable of enabling the vehicle to power a home.

United Rental expects to deploy the vehicles in the second half of 2022. It will partner with Ford Pro Solution experts to provide charging options for customers as well as assist United Rentals with optimal placement and use of the vehicles in its electrification plan and installation of charging infrastructure.