Motiv Power Systems scored an additional $8.1 million grant from the California Energy Commission (CEC) to continue commercializing its electric powertrains, bringing the total amount of the company’s CEC funding to $12.3 million. The company has also opened a new manufacturing facility in Hayward, California, which will employ 20 workers and have an annual production capacity of 480 powertrains.

Motiv’s powertrain is currently powering school buses for Kings Canyon Unified School District, shuttle buses for Google, and garbage trucks for the city of Chicago. These zero-emission trucks and buses have demonstrated a reduction in operating costs of up to 87 percent compared to diesel vehicles, according to Motiv.        

The latest grant includes $2.4 million for the manufacturing facility, $2.7 million to fund production a Class C electric school bus, and $3 million to fund production of electric refuse and loader trucks.

“Motiv Power Systems is advancing electric transportation technology through several California Energy Commission grants, transforming mere concepts into practical zero and near-zero emission vehicles,” said the CEC’s Janea A. Scott. “This new manufacturing facility is a great example of effective public policy and investments that can help the state meet its clean air, climate and petroleum reduction goals.”

“Our success is in large part due to the CEC’s continuing support of cutting-edge research, and investments that help develop zero-emission vehicles,” said Motiv CEO Jim Castelaz. “Our new manufacturing facility will enable us to meet the rising demand for zero-emission vehicles from fleets seeking cost-effective and environmentally friendly transportation solutions.”

The Motiv All-Electric Powertrain Upfit Package is currently available for three truck and bus chassis: the Ford F59, the Ford E450, and theCrane Carrier cab-over class 8 chassis. The Upfit Package includes all components needed to convert the chassis to all-electric drive: batteries, motor, onboard charger, and power for hydraulics, heating and AC.

Source: Motiv Power Systems