Best Buy has begun piloting battery-powered yard switchers at two distribution centers in California, according to its latest corporate responsibility report. The electric vehicles move cargo containers and trailers on site and produce zero tailpipe emissions, replacing diesel-powered equipment.
The pilot is designed to help the retailer assess operational performance, feasibility, and total cost of ownership, with an eye toward potential wider deployment across its supply chain. The company says the investments aim to reduce emissions compliance costs at California warehouses while cutting diesel fuel use and related maintenance expenses.
The yard switcher pilot is one piece of a broader push to lower carbon emissions across Best Buy's distribution network. The company has also installed a solar field at a distribution center in Dinuba, California, and achieved its zero-waste goal at all supply chain facilities. In FY26, it recycled 4.2 million pounds of expanded polystyrene. Best Buy did not specify which warehouses are involved in the pilot or provide a timeline for future rollout.