California Air Resources Board

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Charging & Fueling Options for Every Fleet

Zero-emission vehicles use either battery-electric or hydrogen fuel-cell technologies. Whether you want full control or a hands-off charging or fueling option, there is something that will fit your routes, budget, and timeline. 

Home-Base/Depot Charging 

The most common option for fleets that return to a central base. This type of charging allows for scheduled overnight charging and integration with fleet management and energy management systems to optimize cost and efficiency. Best for predictable routes.  

Public DC Fast Charging 

Works well for decentralized fleets or those needing flexibility on the road. Supports longer routes alongside depot charging. Availability is growing but is still limited for heavy-duty trucks. Fleets should plan routes around station capabilities and locations.  

Controlling Costs – Understanding Managed Charging 

Electricity rates vary based on several factors. This includes the time of day as well as by peak demand at a site or depot. Managed charging is a control strategy to reduce fueling costs. Smart charging and automated load management systems can schedule charging to avoid peak rates and reduce demand charges. Managed charging is often software-driven, offered by utilities or third-party providers, and is best for predictable or flexible schedules when integrated into depot charging.

Additional Options 

Mobile Refuelers / Off-Grid Charging 

Portable systems that can be set up quickly at temporary sites or where the grid isn’t available. These can be a solution while permanent charging or hydrogen stations are being built. These systems are useful for pilot projects or when grid upgrades are delayed. Capacity and power vary, so fleets should check that the mobile charger meets their vehicles’ needs. 

Truck-as-a-Service (TaaS) 

Broad term for innovative business models. One common approach is a subscription that bundles electric trucks, charging access, maintenance, and telematics for one monthly fee. This model removes upfront costs and can speed adoption. Truck-as-a-service is still emerging and is best suited for fleets looking for a low-risk option or have limited in-house expertise.  

Charging-as-a-Service (CaaS) 

A turnkey option with no upfront infrastructure costs. Providers handle equipment, installation, and daily plug-ins. This is ideal for fleets that want a simple, scalable solution or for fleets without access to depot chargers. Charging-as-a-service may also include energy management, monitoring, and maintenance bundled into one service.  

Shared Charging Sites 

Charging hubs used by multiple fleets and run by third parties. These reduce capital costs and provide faster access to high-power charging. Fleets may need agreements or schedules to access these sites. Availability varies by location. 

Hydrogen Fueling Options 

Fast fueling for drayage and regional haul heavy-duty fuel cell trucks. Options include on-site depot fueling, mobile fuelers, and public hydrogen stations. It offers diesel-like convenience with zero emissions. Hydrogen infrastructure is expanding, especially in California and pilot regions. 

Find Charging & Fueling Stations Near You 

There are tens of thousands of electric charging stations throughout California. Hydrogen stations are in most metropolitan areas, with more planned statewide.

California:  Medium/Heavy Duty Zero-emission Station Development  

Nationwide: Medium/Heavy Duty Zero Emission Infrastructure Map 

More Resources

Connect With Your Utility  Early planning is critical to understand potential infrastructure buildout requirements and available incentives.  Several utilities have programs dedicated to assisting with the transition to zero-emission commercial vehicles.  SoCal Edison Charge Ready Transport Program SMUD: Business Electric Vehicles PG&E EV Fleet Program SDG&E Power Your Drive for Fleets
Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Infrastructure Topics CARB has put together this page of web links intended to assist with finding funding, resources, and background. Please visit frequently, as more resources become available this page will continue to grow. Learn More
California Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Project The California Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Project (CALeVIP) addresses regional needs for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure throughout California, while supporting state goals to improve air quality, combat climate change and reduce petroleum use. Learn More
California Energy Commission Funding Resources Guides, forms, templates, and other resources for individuals applying for funding opportunities that the California Energy Commission offers. Learn More
Carl Moyer Program: Infrastructure The Carl Moyer Program may provide funding towards the installation of infrastructure for projects that enable the deployment of alternative, advanced, and cleaner technologies. Learn More
EnergIIZE Infrastructure Readiness Center (IRC) The Infrastructure Readiness Center (IRC) seeks to provide tools and resources to assist with zero-emission vehicle and infrastructure deployment needs. Explore tools to help with infrastructure planning, funding resources and evaluating the total cost of ownership of you vehicle fleet. Learn More
EnergIIZE Monitoring Dashboard Interested in where projects are being funded? Use the interactive EnergIIZE Monitoring Dashboard to explore EnergIIZE funded Electric Vehicle (EV) and Hydrogen infrastructure projects across the state  Learn More
Clean Transportation Program The California Energy Commission’s Clean Transportation Program (also known as the Alternative and Renewable Fuel and Vehicle Technology Program) provides funding to support innovation and accelerate the development and deployment of advanced transportation and fuel technologies. Learn More