In 1901, Mile Hi Foods began as a horse-powered business, delivering food to Denver residents. More than a century later, the company is diving headfirst into the electric era by incorporating electric technologies and closely tracking their emissions. Mile Hi Foods received two grants for a total of $302,052 in 2024 to acquire its first two all-electric terminal tractors.
“We are trying to reduce our carbon footprint,” says Tom Lee, safety operations manager. “It’s the right thing to do.”
When Mile Hi Foods decided they wanted to purchase an e-tractor, they reached out to the Colorado Clean Diesel Program to apply for a grant for a portion of the costs. Lee had a choice between three brands for a terminal tractor and ultimately selected an Orange EV due to its pricing and availability. In considering the cost of the tractor, Lee says that “you can buy two diesel units for the price of one, but the return on investment will be better over time.”
A similar Orange EV terminal tractor had also performed reliably at a Mile Hi Foods bakery in Minnesota’s infamously harsh winters.
“They can work in cold environments,” says Lee. “We are using the unit on two shifts with no problem and the battery is holding a charge.”
Orange EV provided the charging infrastructure, and placing the tractor strategically helped the company track emissions and make meaningful strides toward reducing its environmental footprint. The tractor also its own charging unit and dedicated power source, allowing Mile Hi to track the power usage separate from everything else.
Holding a charge hasn’t been a problem. The tractor runs 18 hours a day, seven days a week with 50-60% or charge remaining after a full-day’s work. In addition to their operational needs, the benefit electric handling gives to employees is also worth the investment. Lee says the tractor went above everyone’s expectations with its quiet, clean ride. Plus, the air conditioner in the unit isn’t using diesel, making it much safer for the drivers.
“The more you can do to make driving and the driver comfortable, reduce stress, and keep them comfortable, it will pay the company back,” says Lee. “When you get out of it, you’re not as tired.”
Mile Hi Foods plans to continue electrification across its expansive regional operations with purchases of fully electric city tractors within the next few months.
“We will continue to do our part to reduce emissions to help improve air quality along the front range,” Lee promises.
