There was a buzz at the edge of town as the ground was broken on what is expected to be a “state-of-the-art facility” for truck sales and service with a focus on green technology at the Kelowna International Airport.
Velocity Truck Centres’ 19th location in Western Canada will serve the BC Interior at 6320 Lapointe Dr. with 41,000 square feet of space and 19 service bays, including one that will be a first of its kind in the Interior.
“Most important to me, personally, is a hydrogen and CNG (compressed natural gas)-compliant technician bay, said Rod Graham, president of Velocity Truck Centres.
“To our knowledge, this will be the only one in this region.”
On hand for the groundbreaking ceremony of the facility planned to open next spring were several dignitaries, including YLW’s CEO Sam Samaddar.
Samaddar told the crowd that this strategic partnership between YLW and Velocity Truck Centres aligns with the airport's vision of being an "airport of the future and a driver of regional economic development."
“As we connect the air bridge with the ground bridge, we’ll require investments in innovation technology as we transition from conventional fuels to biodiesel to electric and hydrogen,” said Samaddar.
“And we're looking forward to working with Velocity Trucks to find innovative ways to reach our shared goals.”
For Samaddar and the City of Kelowna, the project is more than a centre that will sell, repair and showcase trucks but it means adding to the local economy while focusing on the climate.
“This facility is an achievement for both Velocity and Kelowna,” explained Mayor Tom Dyas.
“It is a clear demonstration of the commitment and vision that the private sector shares with the City of Kelowna on addressing climate change through finding sustainable and innovative solutions.”
Other services the facility will offer include taller-than-standard bay doors, a parts warehouse, charging capacity for electric vehicles and a shipping and receiving dock.
“This project also demonstrates the potential of the YLW campus as a hub for transportation, logistics and clean tech solutions,” added Samaddar.
“by attracting businesses … we are creating more jobs, enhancing our infrastructure and diversifying our economy.”
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