The future of service trailers could be the key to a seamless jobsite experience. With a variety of machinery in use, your fueling trailers and trucks must be equipped to meet every demand, ensuring operations run smoothly without unexpected downtime.
The asphalt industry is shifting towards electrification, with major manufacturers like LeeBoy, WIRTGEN Group (including Hamm), Volvo CE, BOMAG, Ammann, and Dynapac introducing electric asphalt paving equipment. Many of these machines can operate for a full workday on a single charge, while other companies continue to explore electric alternatives.
To support this transition, portable fueling trailers are becoming more available, providing on-site charging for electric construction equipment. Federal, state, and local incentives are also driving the adoption of EV technology.
Keith Marett, CEO of Portable Electric, emphasizes the importance of alternative power sources. “The grid is fragile, especially with increasing natural disasters. Our solutions are designed to eliminate the need for carbon-based fuels at industrial sites, whether for powering tools or equipment,” he states.
Since 2015, Portable Electric has been producing battery-powered generators, known as e-Generators. “These generators provide AC power for jobsite activities while also offering DC fast-charging capabilities for electric equipment,” Marett explains.
Portable Electric offers two portable generators—the Voltstack 5k e-Generator and 5k L2 e-Charger—as well as three mobile units: the 30k e-Generator, 30k L2 e-Charger, and 30k L3 e-Charger. The Voltstack 30k features ‘Smart Hybrid’ technology, integrating a diesel generator for off-grid power when battery levels are low. These units can be recharged using the company’s Sunstack folding solar kit.
With the NeuronOS software, users can track and optimize energy consumption in real-time. A three-inch touchscreen display provides alerts and charge status updates.
“Our units can be left on-site for days, then recharged overnight at a warehouse,” Marett notes. “For remote locations without grid access, a small gas or diesel generator can be used solely to recharge the unit, reducing emissions and fuel use.”
Portable EV charging units eliminate the need for costly onsite infrastructure. “Contractors save money while avoiding the hassle of fuel handling and certification requirements,” Marett says. Additionally, these units can be towed by any vehicle, removing the need for a commercial driver’s license.
Volvo Construction Equipment and Portable Electric have introduced the PU130, a mobile charging unit engineered for rapid recharging of electric construction equipment. Designed to reduce downtime, the PU130 features 48V DC Fast Charging technology and a 130 kWh storage capacity, delivering 20 kW for recharging equipment and 40 kW for tools and site power.
Contractors can purchase or rent portable EV charging units from companies like Sunbelt Rentals. Many opt for rentals to avoid upfront investment costs.
While electric construction equipment is gaining traction, diesel-powered fuel transport trailers, such as those from Fuel PRO, remain in use. Owner Nathan Frey acknowledges the industry shift, noting that while Fuel PRO currently builds trailers with electric and gas-powered pumps, demand for electric charging trailers has yet to emerge.
The evolution of technology often brings initial cost concerns, but over time, prices tend to decline. Marett compares the electrification trend to the decreasing costs of computers and other electronic devices, predicting that EV solutions will become more affordable regardless of government incentives.
Contractors should ensure their teams understand EV technology before potential government mandates accelerate adoption. Beyond environmental benefits, Marett highlights the health advantages of electrification: reduced emissions, lower noise levels, and improved communication on job sites.
A major challenge remains ensuring reliable power access for electric equipment in the field. “Job sites need consistent power without prolonged downtime,” Marett says. “Our solution enables a 20-minute quick charge—perfect for lunch breaks—so work can continue uninterrupted.”
Beam Global, a company specializing in off-grid charging solutions, has deployed its technology for construction applications. President and CEO Desmond Wheatley notes that regulations are increasingly targeting emissions from construction equipment, accelerating the push for electrification.
To address infrastructure challenges, Beam Global’s EV ARC 2020 generates and stores its own electricity using solar tracking technology, improving energy capture by up to 25%. With battery storage, the unit provides power even during nighttime, inclement weather, or grid outages. The system can be deployed on various terrains and withstand extreme weather conditions, including hurricane-force winds.
Portable Electric and Beam Global offer remote monitoring capabilities for their charging units, ensuring real-time diagnostics and maintenance. “Every device is connected to the cellular network, allowing us to track battery status and address issues remotely,” Marett explains.
Wheatley adds that the EV ARC 2020 requires minimal maintenance, as it has few moving parts. Live telemetry enables remote troubleshooting, reducing downtime and service costs.
As electrification advances, contractors can choose to purchase or rent EV fueling trailers. Companies like Sunbelt Rentals provide a range of charging solutions, including DC fast chargers and portable battery energy storage systems. These units collect and store grid or generator energy, ensuring a consistent power supply for job sites.
While the industry adapts to electric solutions, one thing remains clear: portable EV charging technology is playing a crucial role in keeping construction sites operational and efficient.
