Amazon adding heavy-duty EV trucks from Einride as it spreads bets on freight electrification

Swedish electric trucking firm Einride is set to introduce 75 manually operated electric heavy-duty trucks into Amazon's Relay freight network. This initiative marks a significant step in Einride's expansion into the U.S. market, coinciding with its upcoming public offering. These electric vehicles will play a crucial role in Amazon's middle-mile logistics, a segment intended to transport goods between fulfillment centers, sortation hubs, air facilities, and last-mile delivery stations. The trucks are anticipated to collectively cover up to three million miles annually, all while producing zero tailpipe emissions. In addition to deploying trucks, Einride will also establish charging infrastructure across five strategic locations. The company will utilize its proprietary software, Saga AI, to optimize the management of electric vehicle operations, particularly for charging logistics on select Amazon loads. Einride's CEO, Roozbeh Charli, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating that collaboration with Amazon validates their technological advancements and vision. "By integrating our intelligent platform within Amazon's sophisticated logistics framework, we are not only driving growth but also enhancing our operational expertise," he said in a LinkedIn announcement. Amazon has been working to create a comprehensive logistics network over the years while focusing on sustainable electrification. As of mid-2025, the e-commerce giant reported a fleet of over 70,000 owned trailers. This move is part of a broader strategy that includes a previous agreement with Rivian to incorporate 100,000 electric delivery vehicles by 2030, along with a significant order of 200 electric big rigs from Mercedes. An Amazon spokesperson noted that this rollout is vital for addressing the challenges of decarbonizing transportation, particularly in heavy-duty trucking. "We are eager to collaborate with Einride and learn from their operations as these trucks begin service," they stated. While the current deal does not involve autonomous trucks, 2026 is anticipated to be pivotal for Einride and its competitors in the autonomous trucking sector. Recently, Einride gained approval from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to operate its autonomous vehicles in Texas, marking its fifth state of operation. The company currently services the first daily commercial autonomous route for GE Appliances in Tennessee and sees Texas as a key area for future operations. Einride is also in the process of going public through a SPAC merger with Legato Merger Corp. III, projected to raise over $300 million. The company is expanding its reach and influence, including attracting former NSA Director General Keith B. Alexander to its board as it seeks to enter the defense sector.