CALSTART Media Contact: Jennifer Smith, CALSTART (626) 744-5645, jsmith@calstart.org  

TACOMA, WA — CALSTART, a leading global clean transportation nonprofit, has announced the launch of the Zero-Emission Drayage Assistance Program (ZDAP), a new program led by the Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA) in partnership with CALSTART. It will be used to educate drayage operators about the zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) available on today’s market and help them discover state-funded ZEVs and charging infrastructure incentives to make the transition to cleaner technologies a breeze.  

ZDAP is designed to eliminate confusion drayage operators may have about switching to zero-emission technologies. CALSTART, the program’s lead consultant, will provide drayage operators with free personalized support to help them better understand today’s zero-emission truck (ZET) market and evaluate their needs based on operational considerations, including fleet readiness and timelines. Fleets will be given one point of contact to help them navigate the process of identifying vehicles and financing opportunities and deploying zero-emission drayage technologies.  

“The ports’ commitment through ZDAP and their development of charging depots with partners like Zeem, in addition to millions of dollars in truck orders through WAZIP, the state DOT incentive project, demonstrate that zero-emission trucks have real fuel and maintenance costs savings for fleets, paving the way for the zero-emission transition,” said Niki Okuk, Director of New Incentive Programs, CALSTART. 

Program participation is optional, and there are no hidden fees associated with using the advisory services. Contact ZDAP program leads if you are interested in adopting zero-emission trucks and speaking to a fleet advisor today.  

Background 

People living in disadvantaged communities are most at risk for developing asthma and cardiovascular diseases from transportation-related air pollution because of their location near major freight corridors, including ports. To address these concerns, while also growing the ZET market, drayage operators are considering switching to ZEVs that reduce environmental health impacts.  

ZEV state incentive programs like the Washington Zero-Emission Incentive Program (WAZIP), funded by the state’s Climate Commitment Act, reduce the cost of ZETs by offering point-of-sale discounts on medium- and heavy-duty zero-emission vehicles and are helping fleet owner-operators buy more affordable, cleaner vehicles. Drayage fleets ready to transition are encouraged to explore the WAZIP vehicle catalog and apply for funding before it is gone.  

As interest in zero-emission drayage grows, charging infrastructure is also breaking ground in the region. Zeem Solutions is developing a commercial vehicle charging site near SeaTac that is designed to support drayage operations with charging access and capabilities; it is expected to open at the end of 2026. 

Today, Washington State has surpassed 2,000 cumulative ZET deployments and continues to be one of the top five states with the fastest ZET adoption according to the normalized ZET score found in CALSTART’s June 2026 Zeroing in on Zero-Emission Trucks report.   

NWSA continues to make freight decarbonization a priority and is working with partners like CALSTART to create an equitable and healthier tomorrow for drayage workers and residents near the Ports of Seattle and Tacoma. Through ZDAP, WAZIP, the NWSA’s Clean Truck Program, and other statewide programs, Washington State will see widespread advancement of ZETs and better air quality. 

WAZIP will host a Ride & Drive event on September 21, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Pacific Raceways in Kent, Washington. Attendees will have the opportunity to test drive and explore eligible zero-emission commercial vehicles and equipment, compare technologies from multiple manufacturers, and connect with dealers, utilities, technical advisors, and WAZIP staff. The event will provide practical information about WAZIP vouchers, funding opportunities, and technical assistance to help businesses evaluate vehicle and equipment options, better understand available incentives, and make informed decisions about transitioning to zero-emission transportation. Registration is free at https://tinyurl.com/bdzcrjp6.

About CALSTART

CALSTART is a global nonprofit that brings together industry, government, and communities to advance and accelerate affordable clean transportation solutions accessible to all. Our work is critical to delivering cleaner air, curbing climate change, and creating economic opportunity. Learn more at calstart.org.