EV Brief Podcast #45: Mark Peters from Transit Systems on Electric Buses

In this episode of the EV Brief Podcast, Jonathan was fortunate to sit down with Mark Peters, General Manager Fleet, Innovation & Business Intelligence for Transit Systems; one of the largest bus operators contracted to Government in the country. Mark's technical and business experience ensures he is across all of Transit Systems' business units, and he is fixed firmly on a zero-emissions future for the fleet.

Timestamps:

00:19 - Introduction

01:50: Mark's role

03:42 - The importance of data

04:20 - Transit Systems' zero-emission fleet strategy

05:13 - The appetite for fleet electrification nationally

08:30 - Driver training for electric buses

09:40 - Mark's thoughts on the electrification transition

10:29 - Technical details of buses, and balancing charging in the depot

13:05 - Will depot design change as electrification takes hold?

14:10 - Charging the buses

15:50 - Bus efficiency

17:20 - Regional travel and electric buses

19:18 - Any operational cost savings over the diesel fleet?

20:48 - Battery degradation in the fleet

21:51 - Battery chemistry

22:22 - Hydrogen fleets - will we see them in Australia?

23:35 - Medium to large scale hydrogen generation

24:51 - Solar and battery infrastructure at the depot

26:16 - Wrap up

Ford confirms E-Transit Custom electric van for Australian market - expected in 2024

The new E-Transit Custom is part of a range of electric vehicles in development by Ford. Images: Ford Australia

Arguably one of Ford’s most important vehicles — the Transit van — has been electrified, and is set for Australian launch this year. Today, Ford Australia confirmed a smaller sibling known as the E-Transit Custom it is set for series production in the second half of 2023, ahead of what we expect will be a 2024 local market introduction.

 Ford Australia is planning to offer five electrified vehicles by the end of 2024, though this includes plug-in hybrid vehicles as well as battery electric vehicles. The E-Transit Custom will join the Australian line-up alongside the Escape plug-in hybrid, due in showrooms in June, and the aforementioned E-Transit.

 While we don’t have full technical details for the E-Transit Custom yet, Ford states that “The E-Transit Custom is designed to set a new benchmark in the one-tonne van segment and help businesses to effortlessly make the change to electrified vehicles.” The larger E-Transit features a 68kWh battery that mated to a single electric motor making 198kW and 420Nm, delivering just over 300km of WLTP range.

We can expect Ford to be targeting Australian small business and tradesmen or “tradies”, who would benefit from low running costs, high load capacity, and the benefits of being able to use the vehicle as a power source for tools and equipment. Ford says the E-Transit Custom will offer “compelling range”, full towing capability and DC fast charging.

“The E-Transit Custom is exactly the kind of versatile, practical van business customers are looking for, with the benefit of zero-emissions efficiency,” said Andrew Birkic, President and CEO, Ford Australia and New Zealand. “We are focused on deeply understanding the needs of commercial vehicle customers and bringing them the best of our global line-up.”

 The E-Transit Custom will be built by Ford Otosan — the blue oval’s Turkish joint venture — as part of Ford Otosan’s €2 billion investment in its electrified model line-up manufacturing facilities.

 We’ll update this article when Ford announces more information.

Australian EV startup Savic Motorcycles receives $1.83 million grant ahead of late-2022 customer deliveries

• Australian electric motorcycle company Savic Motorcycles completes $1.83 million in grant funding

• Three models of the Savic C-Series bike are available, priced at $12,990, $16,990 and $23,990 (AUD)

• The entry level Omega variant offers a 25 kW/110Nm motor, with a 120km urban range and a 0-100km/h time of 5.5 seconds

• Customer deliveries are scheduled to commence late-2022

E-mobility has the potential to reignite the Australian automotive manufacturing sector. We’ve already seen companies like Nexport-BYD-Gemilang and Custom Denning successfully produce electric buses on our shores, while SEA Electric and Janus Electric are decarbonising our transport sector.

Two-wheeled vehicles have always been key to reducing congestion and emissions at local and global levels - they are much more space efficient, have a smaller environmental footprint during the manufacturing process, and output fewer harmful emissions than large vehicles. So why aren’t electric motorbike sales soaring in urban areas?

Zero Motorcycles has failed to live up to expectations in Australia, with the brand pulling the pin on our market in 2017. While the bikes were great, they were expensive, and after-sales support was variable. Harley Davidson sells its brilliant Livewire down under, but there’s a limited market for a $50,000 AUD motorcycle.

Enter Savic Motorcycles. The name may be new, but the brand and the bike comes from an experienced team led by former Ford Australia engineer Dennis Savic, and we think it looks the goods. The Savic C-Series offers all the design cues we love in a “cafe racer” bike, from the Clubman handlebars, to the rear-cowl, and even the BMW-esque “motor” block. Somehow, Savic Motorcycles has captured the essence of a traditional cafe racer, modernised it with an electric drivetrain, and manged to not make it look too naked.

The C-Series will be offered in three variants, named Alpha, Delta and Omega, costing $23,990, $16,990 and $12,990 respectively. The Alpha offers the full monty in terms of range, battery and performance, offering 60 kW of power, 180NM of torque, a 200km urban range and a 0-100km/h time of 3.5 seconds. The entry-level Omega is still good for a 120km urban range with a 0-100km/h time of 5.5 seconds.

Savic Motorcycles receives grant funding of $1.83 million

This week, Savic motorcycles received $657,000 AUD in co-investment funding from the Australian Government’s Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre. The grant is the second part of a $1.83 million capital raise by the company, and will assist the manufacturer in bringing the first customer bikes to market by the end of 2022.

Ford Australia to introduce E-Transit electric commercial vehicle in 2022

It may not be the Mustang Mach-E or the F150 Lighting, but Ford Australia has announced an electrification strategy that will kick off with the E-Transit commercial vehicle in mid-2022, and will eventually include five new electric Ford models for the Australian market by 2024.

The E-Transit is a 68 kWh battery electric vehicle, with a WLTP rated range of 317 km (197 miles). The rear-mounted motor produces 198kW and 430Nm of torque, driven through the rear wheels. Those are some serious numbers for a commercial vehicle. The current 2021 on the market outputs around 125kW for comparison.

According to Anna Hercan, Transit Retail & Product Marketing Manager, Ford Australia, “Our business customers tell us how important it is for them to have their van ready whenever it’s needed. E-Transit has more than enough range for a full day’s work, can fully charge overnight so it’s ready for the next morning and there’s no sacrifice in its load-carrying capacity or convenience.”

To meet customers’ expectations, the E-Transit offers 11.3kW AC and 115kW DC charging, with a 15-80 percent charge taking around 34 minutes on a DC fast charger. According to Ford Australia, E-Transit offers drive modes tailored to its electric powertrain. A special Eco Mode can provide between eight and 10 per cent improvement in energy usage if E-Transit is driven without cargo, or at highway speeds. Eco Mode limits top speed, regulates acceleration and optimises climate control to help maximise the available driving range.

The vehicle also supports Scheduled Pre-Conditioning, enabling the climate control system to be programmed to adjust the cabin to the preferred temperature while the vehicle is still on charge, ensuring that the maximum driving range is available.

E-Transit also offers 11.3 cubic metres of cargo space in mid-roof specification and 12.4 cubic metres for the high roof version, both of which are identical to the Transit 350L RWD diesel equivalents currently available. Gross vehicle mass of up to 4.2 tonnes is offered, with a targeted payload of 1,616 kg.

According to market research company YouGov, 58 per cent of businesses can see EV’s becoming a part of their vehicle fleet in the future. Furthermore, 63 per cent of Aussie consumers would like to see cleaner and more sustainable commercial vehicle fleets on the road and 52 per cent are likely to consider an electrified vehicle for their next vehicle purchase.

Ford Australia will bring new battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles to Australia, as part of a plan to build an electrified future down under. According to Andrew Birkic, president and CEO of Ford Australia and New Zealand, “We are accelerating our electrified future in Australia, [and] we are anticipating the needs of each type of customer and bringing the best of our global lineup to meet those requirements. For business customers, E-Transit delivers the durability and capability they need to serve their customers, along with zero-emissions efficiency.”

We expect this plan to include a mix of battery-only (BEVs) and Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles (PHEVs); while Ford is implementing its electrification strategy, building battery plants, new factories, and partnering with Volkswagen to leverage Wolfsburg’s Modular Electric Drive (MEB) platform architecture, all this takes time, and it is unlikely the fruits of such pursuits would make their way to Australia in two years.

With Hyundai and Kia planning more volume BEVs by 2022, and an expected wave of new Chinese cars to reach our shores by next year, Ford may be a bit late to the BEV party.

Back to the E Transit though; the last-mile delivery market in Australia is an untapped opportunity for e-mobility manufacturers. With the pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic on business, alongside increasing costs of fuel and road charges, businesses in Australia are looking for more ways to save money and the environment. Furthermore, commercial vehicles are more often than not dirty, diesel soot-belching models, and these noisy vehicles spend a large percentage of their lives idling on residential streets. If Ford can make a business case for the E Transit here, other global manufacturers are sure to follow. Let’s just hope we will see the Mustang Mach-E here eventually.

[Updated] Ford to commence Mustang Mach-E police cruiser trial with Michigan State Police

[Updated] 26/09/21: The Mustang Mach-E became the first all-electric vehicle to pass the rigorous Michigan State Police 2022 model year evaluation. Testing included acceleration, top speed, braking and high-speed pursuit, as well as emergency response handling characteristics. Michigan State Police is one of two law enforcement agencies that annually test new model year police vehicles and publish the results for use by agencies nationwide.

“The fact that the Mustang Mach-E successfully stood up to the grueling Michigan State Police evaluation demonstrates that Ford can build electric vehicles that are capable, tough and reliable enough for even the most challenging jobs,” said Ted Cannis, CEO of Ford Pro. “We understand the needs of our commercial customers and are committed to unlocking new electrification opportunities for them.”

Hot on the heels of Ford of Great Britain revealing a Mustang Mach-E police vehicle trial, Ford USA has announced that as part of its $30 billion investment in electrification over the next 3 years, the automaker would also implement a pilot program - hopefully the first of many - testing an all-electric Mustang Mach-E with the Michigan State Police.

The Mustang Mach-E is an aggressive and sporty EV, and looks even tougher in police livery. While this particular example is not fitted with a lightbar, we expect that Ford will, in time, develop an in-house police package for electric vehicles that streamline the acquisition process for police fleets.

Tesla’s Model 3 has been a popular choice among law enforcement officials who have chosen to electrify their fleets; we’ve seen Westport Connecticut’s police chief demonstrate considerable savings after one year of running a Model 3, and Bargesville Indiana police’s Tesla save the department -and taxpayer- $6,000 in gas/fuel costs after twelve months.

With Tesla’s built-in surround view camera system, police departments are able to avoid costly retrofits of camera systems, and the automaker has even worked with police departments to help implement computer systems and access the car’s internal data systems.

Ford has likely been closely watching Tesla’s foray into the first-responder fleet market, and will also be aiming to assist police departments decarbonise their fleets. The police vehicle market is a profitable one in the USA, and Ford alone has sold between twenty and forty thousand police vehicles per year for the last few years.

Renault expands range of electric trucks, with new 18 tonne D Wide Z.E

Images: Renault Trucks

Renault Trucks has just announced an 18 tonne D Wide Z.E. model to join the 16 and 26 tonne Renault Trucks D Z.E. and D Wide Z.E. models.

The manufacturer is also offering a wider range of wheelbases and special connectivity for refrigerated bodies:

Renault Trucks D Wide Z.E.

• GVWR of 18 tonnes or 26 tonnes., each +1 tonne dispensation

• Available wheelbases: 3,900mm, 4,100mm, 4,300mm, 4,500mm, 4,750mm, 5,250mm, 5,000mm, 5,250mm, 5,500mm, 5,800mm, 6,100mm and 6,800mm

• Two electric engines with a total power of 370 kW (continuous power of 260 kW)

• Maximum torque of electric engines: 850 Nm

• Maximum axle torque: 28 kNm.

• Two-speed gearbox

• Energy storage: lithium-ion batteries, 200 kWh and 265 kWh.

• Operating range: from 100km for waste collection, up to 180 km for distribution.

Renault Trucks D Z.E.

• GVWR of 16 tonnes

• Available wheelbases: 4400mm and 5300mm

• Electric engine with 185 kW power (continuous power of 130 kW)

• Maximum torque of the electric engine: 425 Nm.

• Maximum axle torque: 16 kNm

• Two-speed gearbox

• Energy storage: 200 and 265 kWh lithium-ion batteries

• Operating range: up to 400 km

The 18 tonne D Wide Z.E. will be manufactured at Renault Trucks’ Blainville-sur-Orne plant (Calvados), where the D Z.E. and the D Wide Z.E. have been produced since 2020.

Equipped with a two-axle chassis for improved manoeuvrability, the 18 tonne D Wide Z.E. is the ideal vehicle for temperature-controlled distribution, with an optimised payload.

In addition, Renault Trucks has designed a new system to increase the energy efficiency of all-electric trucks equipped with a refrigerated body.

All Renault Trucks D Z.E. and D Wide Z.E trucks are now available with a fridge-connection option, which supplies the energy required for the refrigeration system directly from the vehicle's 600 V traction batteries.

The range of wheelbases available for its D and D Wide Z.E. from 3900 mm to 6800 mm, aide manoeuvrability and optimise load distribution according to Renault. The manufacturer expects strong interest from light construction, building supplies and skip operators keen to offer the best possible service to their urban customers.

Electric trucks have many benefits over internal combustion equivalents; cheaper operating costs and improved reliability for fleet operators, and zero-emissions for drivers, employees and pedestrians around the vehicle. Electric trucks are also able to operate in European city centres at night, in keeping with strict noise regulations.

While Australia has a long way to go in decarbonising its transport fleet, companies like SEA Electric are making waves with their technology, and just this week, the Electric Vehicle Council announced a paratnership alongside the Australian Trucking Association to commence an industry-wide approach to increase electric heavy vehicle uptake.

Source: Renault Trucks

Volta Trucks testing prototype electric truck, announces Trucks as a Service business

It may not be much to look at, but this is a real-world testing prototype of Volta’s Zero commercial vehicle. Named Volta Minus One by the company’s development engineers, this test truck is the forerunner to the production specification Volta Zero 16-tonne truck.

The vehicle’s chassis frame, Proterra-supplied high-voltage battery, axles, motor and transmission are all close to final specification, and this unconventional-looking vehicle will allow Volta to test electro-mechanical components as well as thermal properties of the truck. The flatbed design allows the development team to easily add varying amounts of weight to evaluate carrying capacity.

Volta will be testing the Zero in conjunction with Horiba Mira, a specialised vehicle development and engineering company in the UK. Volta plans to continue testing the Zero across a range of locations and climates from the Arctic Circle to the Mediterranean, to ensure reliability, durability, and performance meet customer expectations prior to the pilot fleet rollout sometime in 2022.

Volta also published a video highlighting their proposed Truck as a Service (TaaS) business; the decarbonisation of transport fleets will likely require a higher level of initial investment from companies than comparable internal combustion engine (ICE) trucks, and Volta aims to capture the emerging electric commercial vehicle market by packaging all upfront vehicle and ongoing running costs into a single fee. The company projects lower total cost of ownership over ICE trucks for fleet managers, and aims to maximise uptime and operational efficiency of fleet vehicles by providing everything from training and EV charging infrastructure, to vehicle repayments, and maintenance.

New South Wales government to add 35 electric buses to its North Shore fleet

A BYD-Gemilang-Nexport electric bus, currently servicing the Inner West of Sydney.

The New South Wales Government has appointed Busways North West as the operator of bus services in Sydney’s North West and select areas of the Lower North Shore, and the company has committed to introducing 35 electric buses to replace diesel buses that have reached the end of their life.

“Busways is an Australian-owned family company which currently runs bus routes, with integrated On Demand services, in Sydney’s West and the Hills District, and will now operate in the North West and Lower North Shore,” Mr Constance said. 

“Busways will introduce 35 electric buses to replace diesel buses that need to be retired, meaning cleaner, quieter and smoother rides for customers. Charging infrastructure will be installed at the Willoughby depot to support the new fleet.” 

Nexport is likely a contender to receive the purchase order. As a growing Australian business, with the company recently announcing a $110 million funding injection from Hong Kong-based financier Tor Investment Management, Nexport plans to partner with Australian technology giant Tritium —which is soon set to list on the NASDAQ exchange— to build EVs in Brisbane and the Australian Capital Territory. Nexport is already building buses using BYD drivetrains and Gemlang/Volgren bodies in New South Wales and Victoria.

We’ve reached out to Transport for New South Wales to get more information on the buses.

A concept of BYD-Nexport’s next electric bus. Image: Nexport

[Updated] The new BMW CE 04 electric scooter is a futuristic urban commuter with a 130km range

[Update] 1:15pm 8/7/21: The CE 04 is confirmed for an Australian market introduction in Q1 2022, and pricing and specifications are listed at the bottom of this article. At $20,350 AUD, it’s certainly not cheap, but with little maintenance and refueling needed, we’re confident this scooter will find popularity among well-heeled urban commuters.

BMW is well known for its motorcycles; the Bavarian automaker has built many iconic bikes such as the twin-cylinder boxer-engined R series, to the water-cooled BMW K series, however outside Europe, BMW Motorrad is not a name synonymous with scooters.

The BMW CE 04 is a serious bike, and BMW is throwing all its technology at the futuristic scooter. With an 8.9 kWh battery pack, the CE 04 shares its cells with the yet-to-be-released iX SUV. According to Oliver Zipse, CEO of BMW AG, “The BMW CE 04 is our new electric star for the city. It combines an e-drive with emotion and motorcycling fun. The latest technology, and the best battery cells, which also provide power in the BMW iX.”

Those 8.9 kWh will provide a 130 kilometre (81 mile) range, and power a 31 kW (42 PS) rear wheel-mounted electric motor that propels the CE 04 from 0 to 50 km/h (31 mph) in just 2.6 seconds. In the urban traffic light grand prix, the CE 04 will be tough to beat. The maximum speed is 120 km/h (65 mph).

BMW will make a reduced-output version available in Europe, with 23 kW (31 PS) to comply with L3e-A1 vehicle class regulations for riders with licence restrictions.

The battery will charge from 0-100 percent on a regular, household power socket (2.3 kW) in 4 hours and 20 minutes. With a 6.9 kW fast charger, the same charge will take only 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Design and Technology

Let’s talk design; it has already been designed as radical and futuristic, but I think it’s the perfect evolution of BMW’s urban mobility bikes. a broad, aggressive front with LED headlgiths, low-slung body thanks to the hub-mounted motor and tech-y colours like grey, white, matte black and orange. BMW designers have even described it as architectural, and the CE 04 appears to share some design elements with the BMW Welt pictured in some photographs below.

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There’s a 10.25-inch TFT colour screen with integrated map navigation and telephone connectivity. It would be great to see a touch interface integration of Apple Carplay or Android Auto, but we’re not sure if that smartphone mirroring tech has made it to bikes yet.

A permanent magnet electric motor mounted in the frame between the battery and the rear wheel drives the CE 04, and three riding modes “ECO”, “Rain” and “Road” are standard. The additional “Dynamic” riding mode is also available as an ex-works option, enabling the scooter to accelerate at an even swifter pace. it’s unclear whether this will be available as an option outside Europe at this stage.

Engineering and Mechanicals

BMW bikes are always criticised for their price, and sure, one does pay a premium for perceived brand cache, however from the handful of different (petrol) BMW bikes I’ve ridden, you can literally feel the engineering that has gone into the product. They ride, corner and handle beautifully, and inspire a confidence on the road that, in my opinion, is worth the entry price.

The main frame of the body is a tubular steel construction. The front wheel is controlled by a telescopic fork with a slider tube diameter of 35 mm. Rear wheel control consists of a single-sided swing arm. At the rear, suspension and damping are performed by a directly controlled, fully covered spring strut.15 inch tyres are standard, with 120/70 R15 67H fitted at the front, and 160/60 R15 56H at the rear. These are sure to provide grip aplenty.

Powerful braking is present to halt all that performance; disc brakes all round, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ASC (Automatic Stability Control).

While 130 kilometres of range may not sound like much, that’s enough in theory to complete the round-trip from Palm Beach on Sydney’s Northern Beaches to the Central Business District, or from Greenwich Connecticut to Midtown Manhattan.

While greater range is always welcome, there is an environmental and performance trade-off, and we think BMW has struck the right balance here with its 8.9 kWh battery pack.

The BMW CE 04 will launch in Spring 2022 (quarter 2) in the northern hemisphere; BMW Australia has been contacted regarding a possible local market introduction.

[Update] Australian specification is as follows:

BMW CE 04: $20,350* 

Standard specification: 

- Liquid-cooled permanent magnet electric motor 

- 130kW (42hp) output 

- 62Nm torque 

- 8.9kWh air-cooled lithium-ion high voltage battery 

- 2.3kWh charger 

- Tooth-belt driven gearbox (total gear ratio: 10.5) 

- Dynamic Package (Headlight Pro, Adaptive Headlight, Daytime Riding Light, Riding Modes Pro, ABS Pro) 

- Comfort Package (Heated Grips and Backrest Comfort Seat) 

- Seat Heating 

- Tyre Pressure Control 

- Centre Stand 

- LED indicators 

- LED headlight and taillight 

- 10.25-inch TFT display 

- Ventilated mobile phone charging compartment 

- USB-C charging port 

- Front and side storage compartments 

- Light White paint 

Options 

- Backrest Comfort Seat II: No cost option (note: recommended for riders above 190cm tall) 

- Windshield High: $140 

- Anti-theft alarm system: $375 

- 30A Quick Charger: $1,330 

BMW CE 04 Avantgarde: $20,690* 

Includes all standard specification from the CE 04 and adds the following: 

- Windshield High 

- Magellan Grey Metallic paint 

Options 

- Backrest Comfort Seat II: No cost option (note: recommended for riders above 190cm tall) 

- Anti-theft alarm system: $375 

- 30A Quick Charger: $1,330 

Daimler, Traton and Volvo jointly invest 500 million euros in heavy vehicle EV charging network

Daimler’s e-Actros battery-electric rigid frame truck. Image: Daimler

Three of Europe’s biggest truck manufacturers - Daimler Trucks, Traton and AB Volvo plan to invest 167 million euro each ($262 million AUD/$198 million USD) in a new joint venture business to develop a Europe-wide charging network for battery electric heavy vehicles.

The notion of electrified heavy vehicles scares many away from even discussing the transition away from polluting trucks; weight, cost, charging and range are all cited as insurmountable obstacles, and there aren’t many manufacturers with production-ready battery-electric models. Even Tesla’s much-lauded Tesla Semi is at least twelve months away.

This joint venture aims to address the issues of range anxiety and charging; according to Martin Daum, chief executive of Daimler Trucks, "The key ingredient in the future rolling-out of electric vehicles will be the infrastructure. It will be the big bottleneck"

The European Car Industry Association (ACEA) wants 50,000 heavy vehicle charge points across Europe by 2030, warning that a dense network of recharging sites in all EU member states is crucial to making road freight carbon neutral by 2050.

All three companies currently have electric trucks in development and are aiming for the joint venture company to be operational by 2022. The company will be headquartered in Amsterdam and lists an initial objective of installing 1,700 charging points within five years.

With time, it’s expected that other manufacturers will join the new joint venture. "In order to accelerate further, we need additional partners, additional networks, and public funds," AB Volvo CEO Martin Lundstedt said. "We will continue to be very fierce competitors. But we need a new platform to compete upon."

The ACEA is also a proponent of hydrogen fuel cell-powered transport and is working to set a target of installing 300 hydrogen refueling stations in the EU by 2025. Daimler, Toyota, Volvo, and Hyunda are among legacy automakers investing in fuel cell technology, and Hyundai is currently operating Xcient hydrogen fuel cell rigid body trucks in Switzerland.

Source: Reuters

Daimler has a diverse portfolio of brands, including Fuso and Freightliner. Image: Daimler

Hyundai's hydrogen-powered XCIENT test fleet surpasses 1 million kilometre milestone

Hyundai’s 2021 XCIENT Fuel Cell truck. Image: Hyundai

Hyundai has been testing hydrogen fuel cell technology for many years across all forms of transport from the Nexo passenger car we recently reviewed, to heavy vehicles. While we believe that battery electric passenger vehicles are superior to hydrogen fuel cell vehicles in the long term, hydrogen may play an increasingly larger role in transport and logistics.

Hyundai's fleet of XCIENT Fuel Cell trucks has collectively exceeded 1 million kilometres of driving in 11 months of service in Switzerland. During that time, the fleet has reduced CO2 emissions by over an estimated 630 tons when compared to diesel-powered vehicles according to the automaker. The 46 trucks in the fleet have been in the service of 25 Swiss companies in logistics, distribution, and supermarket fulfillment. 

 “Swiss transport and logistics companies are convinced that hydrogen fuel cell commercial vehicles have the greatest potential among various alternative energy vehicles. The member companies do not stop at simply introducing hydrogen fuel cell trucks. They have high expectations for the hydrogen energy source that holds great potential for the future and believe that hydrogen will be the key for transitioning to eco-friendly energy,” Jörg Ackermann, Chairman of the H2 Mobility Switzerland Association said. “Specifically, the biggest advantage of hydrogen energy is its excellent storability. This suggests that hydrogen will play an important role in the era of eco-friendly energy. Many distribution companies are already experiencing the benefits directly by using the XCIENT fuel cell trucks, and I think that if summer operation is completed successfully, the demand for the XCIENT fuel cell trucks will increase even more."

XCIENT is available in a 4x2 or 6x2 rigid body configurations.

 The XCIENT range was launched in 2019, and the 2021 model features revised styling and performance improvements. The XCIENT is available in a 4x2 or 6x2 rigid body configuration. A total of 140 units of the 2021 model will be shipped to Switzerland by the end of this year, with 1,600 planned by 2025.

 It’s worth noting that the European Parliament has backed low-carbon hydrogen and plans to significantly increase production over the coming decade but at this stage, there is still limited hydrogen production, storage and refueling capability in the EU. Hyundai Hydrogen Mobility (HHM) leases the XCIENT Fuel Cell trucks to commercial truck operators on a pay-per-use basis which includes the hydrogen supply as well. The benefit for commercial fleet customers is that there is no initial investment.

Hyundai Motor Company has set an annual sales goal of 110,000 fuel cell electric vehicles worldwide by 2025, under its ‘Strategy 2025’ plan. Meanwhile, the wider Hyundai Motor Group plans to ramp up production capacity for hydrogen-powered vehicles to 500,000 units by 2030.

We certainly welcome the decarbonisation of the transportation sector, but would like to see Hyundai developing its battery technology systems to integrate with its rigid body trucks.

New South Wales announces $490 million EV incentive and support package in 2021 budget

The slow cascade of reform and incentives to adapt to a future of e-mobility has hit New South Wales, as the government announces a $490 million package to boost battery electric vehicle (BEV) uptake in the state.

Electric vehicle reform is often a battle of ideologies and ministerial power; state treasurers see potential sources of revenue whilst environment and transport ministers see community, environmental, and social benefits.

With Victoria’s rush to implement a user charge on electric vehicle owners receiving wide condemnation, NSW has taken a considered approach to state reform in this area. While not as generous as incentives implemented by the government of the Australian Capital Territory, NSW is heading in the right direction, and this announcement has received wide acclaim from industry groups like Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI), manufacturers such as Nissan Australia and Hyundai Motor Company Australia, and community groups like Solar Citizens.

The $490 million package aims to cut the upfront costs of electric vehicles for early adopters from September 1 this year, with a $3,000 rebate available for just the first 25,000 purchases below $68,750. The following vehicles currently on the market in Australia would be eligible for this rebate:

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L to R: NSW treasurer Dominic Perrottet, EV Council CEO Behyad Jafari, NRMA CEO Rohan Lund, NSW Environment minister Matt Kean and NSW transport minister Andrew Constance. Image: Andrew Constance via Twitter

• BMW i3

• Hyundai Ioniq range

• Hyundai Kona Electric range

• Kia Niro range

• Maxda MX-30 E35 Astina

• Mini Electric

• MG ZS EV

• Nissan Leaf Range

• Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus

Stamp duty on BEVs and hydrogen vehicles will be waived from September 1 this year, provided the vehicle retails for less than $78,000. Duty in the state is calculated at a rate of 3 per cent on the vehicle’s value (excluding registration and compulsory third party insurance, but including Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Luxury Car Tax (LCT)) and an additional 5 per cent on every dollar about $45,000.

These incentives will be offset by a 2.5c/kilometre charge set to be introduced in 2027, or when EV sales in the state make up 30% of total sales, whichever comes first.

As an example, if you were looking to buy a Kia Niro EV that had a retail price of $66,000 inclusive of options and federal taxes, the state stamp duty cost would be $2,400. Instead, the government is reducing the price to $63,000 for those first 25,000 takers.

If you purchase a $66,000 BEV once the c/km charge comes in in 2027 —assuming stamp duty rates remain the same— you would be saving $2,400 in duty payable to the state.

Unfortunately, this unfairly targets consumers in regional areas or those who are pushed to the urban fringe of Sydney, who are forced to drive long distances due to limited transport options. A 2.5c/km charge wouldn’t concern an inner-city driver who might cover ten-to-twenty kilometres a day and certainly wouldn’t push that driver into public transport options.

It would disadvantage many of the state’s residents who have no option but to drive hundreds of kilometres a week; a commuter who travels 30,000 kilometres a year would eradicate any stamp duty saving on that $66,000 vehicle above in just three and a quarter years, paying $750 in EV tax annually.

The NSW government also announced that its own vehicle fleet would be fully electrified by 2030, and is putting $33 million toward that goal.

NSW transport minister Andrew Constance is hopeful that an increase in electrification of vehicles in NSW will reduce the state’s emissions, saying “Our transport sector currently makes up 20 per cent of the state’s emissions, with almost 50 per cent of those coming from passenger vehicles,” Constance said. “Electric vehicles are not only cheaper to run and quieter on our roads, but they also reduce both carbon emissions and air pollution which results in dramatically improved health outcomes for our communities.”

There’s also $171 million to establish a network of ultra-rapid vehicle chargers across the state’s major highways, that aims to replicate Queensland’s Electric Super Highway, $20 million in grants to assist key tourist sites rolling out destination charging facilities, and $20 million for charging infrastructure at public transport hubs and depots.

The government has an ambitious target to ensure Sydney residents are no more than 5km from a rapid charging site, and that regional residents are within 100km of rapid charging facilities. Buried deep in the press release were these maps, and it looks like the government intends to provide pretty broad coverage across all areas of NSW.

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The NSW government has announced that most of the state will be covered by DC rapid charging sites, with communities to be no more than 100km from a charger.

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Sydney residents are promised a rapid charging network that will likely roll out at key sites around the city’s orbital motorway system, with charge points to be located within 5 minutes drive of all residents.

NSW is set to roll out a network of rapid EV charging sites across the state’s highways and freeways.

According to The Driven, NSW energy minister Matt Kean said the new policies should put the state on track to see an electrification rate of 50 per cent of new car sales.

“Countries and carmakers around the world are moving to EVs and NSW consumers deserve access to the latest vehicle models when they go to buy a car,” Kean said. “We also know that, with new cars staying on the road 15 years on average, the vast majority of new cars sold in NSW need to be EVs by 2035 to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.”

“Our aim is to increase EV sales to more than 50 per cent of new cars sold in NSW by 2030 and for EVs to be the vast majority of new cars sold in the State by 2035.”

“This nation-leading plan will help us achieve these objectives by tackling the three biggest barriers to purchasing an EV – range anxiety, upfront cost, and model availability – and is forecast to see EV new car sales hit 52 per cent by 2030-31. We want new and cheaper models of EVs to be available here in NSW and this strategy is designed to drive that outcome,” Kean added.

The above initiatives are certainly welcome, and with around 400,000 new car sales a year, NSW holds the crown for the largest passenger car market. Any uptake in electrification will certainly assist in emissions reduction.

Kia’s Niro EV will benefit from zero stamp duty under the NSW government’s new EV scheme.

There are a number of policy changes that we would have liked to see alongside the EV incentives:

• Interest-free loans for EVs and household batteries and solar (as per the ACT)

• A charge on internal combustion engine vehicles, either at the point of sale or on a cents-per-kilometre basis factoring in weight and emissions

• Low Emissions Zones (LEZs) established in congested areas such as Sydney’s central business district (CBD), the Parramatta CBD, and in the soon-to-be-built third Sydney basin city of Bradfield;

• Concessions for those outside dense metro areas

We believe that along with the carrot approach, a little bit of stick is needed to accelerate the change to EVs. As New Zealand recently demonstrated, EV subsidies should work hand in hand with appropriate levies on polluting internal combustion vehicles. a Ford Ranger or Toyota Hilux will incur an additional $NZ2,900 fee under the country’s new scheme.

NSW’s scheme also penalises those who have no choice but to drive more; a 2.5c/km charge won’t impact an inner-city Sydney resident who might drive 5-6km per day (and certainly won’t be a push factor into public transport), whereas it would have a large impact on regional residents or those on to the city’s fringe who are forced to commute 50, 80 or 100+ kilometres per day by car, and don’t have alternative transport options.

The scheme should take this into account, and we believe emissions zones would be another great addition. By designating certain dense city areas a LEZ, The state can generate additional revenue, dissuade polluting trucks and ICE cars from entering central city areas at peak times, and improve public health outcomes for commuters and residents.

The state’s Premier, Gladys Berejiklian has stated that the new city of Bradfield — currently in the early stages of master planning — will be Australia’s first 22nd Century City; if this is truly the case, the government should recognise any city from the future must be emissions-free. When a government has the rare opportunity to plan a dense metropolitan area from scratch, it must think big, and it must think zero-emissions.

All in all, this is a welcome announcement from the NSW government, and with rebates and stamp duty waivers set to commence from September 2021, we may see a sharp increase in EV sales in the latter part of this year.

EVGateway to provide software for Revel New York City EV Charging Superhubs

Revel’s first EV charging Superhub is expected to open in Brooklyn by July 2021. Images: Revel

An artists impression of Revel’s first Superhub.

Electric mobility company Revel, which recently announced plans to launch an all-electric rideshare service in New York City has also committed to building a network of EV fast-charging Superhubs across New York City.

The Network will be open to the public, and not limited to Revel’s rideshare drivers. Pricing has yet to be announced.

Partnering with Tritium and EvGateway, the sites will utilize Tritium’s newest modular RTM75 DC chargers, with specialized software provided by EVGateway.

"The EvGateway software can be customized for every client and charging requirement. To help facilitate the expansion of EV infrastructure, EvGateway offers solutions for any charging scenario (commercial, fleet, private, residential, employee, hotel, utility, parking lots, etc.). Revel's mission of advancing electrification closely aligns with EvGateway's philosophy of helping to shape a zero-emissions future," said EvGateway President Reddy Marri.

Revel's rideshare service is launching in Manhattan within the next few months, operating below 42nd Street initially. It will expand to other areas of the borough in 2022. 50 blue Tesla Model Ys will be specially outfitted to provide maximum passenger comfort, as well as safety for both drivers and passengers.

The first DC charging Superhub will be going live by July, and is located at 630 Flushing Avenue Williamsburg, on the site of the former Pfizer Building headquarters. It will consist of 30 stations capable of delivering 100 miles (161 km) of charge to vehicles in about 20 minutes, the company announced earlier this year. The chargers will be open to the public on a 24/7 basis and accessible to owners of any electric vehicle brand.

Source: Newswire

Revel’s rideshare Model Y will be modified to provide maximum passenger comfort.

Former Canoo CEO to join Apple as Cupertino company works on Project Titan EV

Apple has had a large team working on its electric vehicle platform since 2014, which is codenamed “Project Titan”. After an initial focus on autonomous technology and systems, the company has reportedly pivoted back to vehicle development and has held talks with battery giants BYD and CATL. According to sources for Reuters, Apple is keen to develop a US battery factory with whoever signs on to the project.

The Verge is now reporting that Ulrich Kranz, co-founder and CEO of EV startup Canoo — and also formerly a BMW executive during the i3 and i8 development periods — will work on the Cupertino company’s electric vehicle program under former Tesla executive Doug Field.

Kranz even help talks with Apple during the development of Canoo’s EV platform, however talks between the two companies broke down as Apple was more interested in the acquisition of the startup rather than investing in the business.

The Verge has noted that Kranz was one of a number of top executives who have departed Canoo over the last twelve months, with the company’s first CEO Stefan Krause, and CFO and chief counsel also leaving the business.

Canoo went public on the NASDAQ in December 2020 via a SPAC deal, and is thought to have received close to $600 million USD from the deal. The company’s stock price launched at $22.82, and is currently trading at $9.76 at the time of writing.

Canoo is looking to fill a niche in the increasingly crowded EV market, by developing and building commercial electric vehicles for small businesses. Its Multipurpose Delivery Vehicle (MPDV) and Canoo Pickup are scheduled for launch to US-based customers by 2023.

Not much is known about Apple’s Project Titan, however it’s believed that the company’s focus on autonomous driving alongside a vehicle platform could lead the tech company to compete with Tesla, in the race to get a fleet of autonomous taxis onto the streets.

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Canoo’s MPDV. Image: Canoo

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Canoo’s Pickup.

Source: The Verge

St Baker Energy Fund to invest $20 million in TrueGreen Mobility ahead of introduction of $35k BYD EA1 and T3

L to R: Trevor St Baker, StBEIF CEO Rodger Whitby, and TrueGreen Mobility CEO Luke Todd. Image: TrueGreen Group

This week, Australia’s e-mobility focused TrueGreen Group announced that the St Baker Energy Innovation Fund (StBEIF) will be injecting $20 million into its business, as the company looks to roll out two BYD electric vehicles in Australia later this year from $35,000.

The BYD T3 commercial van will lead the charge, offering a 50 kWh battery with 300 km (186 mile) range. The compact BYD EA1 — recently unveiled at the Shanghai Auto Show — will follow later in 2021, and will offer customers a 500km range .

Luke Todd, TrueGreen Mobility chief executive said there was “pent-up demand” from businesses for electric transport and that TrueGreen Mobility expected to sell thousands of small vans nationally.

Speaking with The Driven, he stated “With our products, electric vehicles have now reached price parity with combustion engines, so a switch to EVs makes perfect economic, commercial, environmental and moral sense.”

Rodger Whitby, CEO of the StBEIF, said the $20 million financial injection was a “relatively small token of collaboration” and that the fund would spend tens or hundreds of millions of dollars expanding Evie Networks’ public charging sites according to the Australian Financial Review.

A little history. If you don’t know the name Trevor St Baker, you probably should. An expert in electricity utility planning in Australia in the 1960s and 1970s, he ultimately went on to found a number of private power development companies, with investment in Australia, South East Asia, and the United States.

Mr. St Baker is pro-nuclear and coal power, and has publically criticised the idea that renewables can provide baseload power while advocating for coal power stations to delay their closure.

Nexport’s $35,000 BYD T3 van. Image: Nexport Australia

In 2013, he formed the StBEIF, of which the primary purpose was to invest in energy start-up businesses, and that’s where Tritium — an EV charging hardware company you may have heard of — comes in.

The StBEIF is focused on investing in electric vehicles, despite its history in the oil and gas sectors. Speaking to the Sydney Morning Herald, Mr. St Baker said “People are marching in the street for decarbonising and net-zero emissions and they’re really serious about it,” he said. “Decarbonising and electrifying the transport sector is an absolutely essential part of that.”

Trevor St Baker, Luke Todd, and Rodger Whitby with a BYD T3 electric van. Image: TrueGreen Group

The StBEIF’s $40 million ($31.051 million USD) investment in Tritium paid off, with the Australian-based company set to list on the NASDAQ through special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) Decarbonisation Plus Acquisition Corporation II, itself owned by asset management firm Riverstone Holdings. The enterprise value is expected to be $2.2 billion ($1.708 billion USD).

The StBEIF will also assume a seat on the board of TrueGreen Group. The fund also backs Australian high-speed EV charging company Evie Networks.

Peugeot e-Boxer last-mile electric delivery van priced from £49,335 in UK

Peugeot’s e-Boxer will start from £49,335 in the UK after the PiCG. Images: Peugeot

Peugeot has announced pricing for its e-Boxer electric van in the UK. Customers have the choice of panel van, window van, and chassis cab body styles, three wheelbase lengths depending on business needs, and two battery options:

Panel Van L2H2 435 37kWh Auto Professional - £49,335 (After Plug-in Car Grant)

Panel Van L3H2 435 70kWh Auto Professional - £55,085

Panel Van L3H2 440 70kWh Auto Professional - £58,355

Panel Van L4H2 440 70kWh Auto Professional - £59,255

Window Van L4H2 440 70kWh Auto Professional - £59,750

Chassis Cab L3 435 70kWh Auto Professional - £52,010

Chassis Cab L3 440 70kWh Auto Professional - £55,280

The entry model offers a 37 kWh battery with a 73-mile (117km) range (WLTP). Buyers can option a larger 70kWh battery, which will provide 139 miles (224km) of range, and will cost an additional £5,750.

All models come with a 22kW Type 2 charging cable that is compatible with both single and three phase wallboxes. A full 0-100% charge using a 7.4kW single phase wallbox can be achieved in six hours on the 37kWh battery, and 12 hours on the 70kWh battery. The e-Boxer also supports DC rapid charging up to 50kW, allowing a 0-80% charge in just one hour. Both battery options are connected to a 90kW electric motor producing 350Nm of torque.

Peugeot’s e-Boxer will offer a choice of 117km or 224km range models.

While the vehicle range-to-price ratio may seem uneconomical, electric delivery vans are set to be common sights on our streets in response to strict environmental standards being introduced at all levels of government across the United States and Europe. Volta is aiming to bring a range of electric trucks to European streets by 2025, and Amazon/Rivian’s delivery van is currently testing across the United States.

The efficient and clean movement of freight within dense urban areas is a complex problem facing municipalities and planners alike, and short-range, zero-emissions vehicles are set to slash diesel usage and particulate matter. There is potential to quickly reduce fleet operating costs, as well as downtime due to mechanical issues. Electric vehicles also offer the ability to integrate smart software into the vehicle, to optimise delivery routes and minimise driver fatigue.

Peugeot’s e-Boxer is available to order now for European customers.

Zero interest loans for electric vehicles in Australian first: 2 years free registration and $15,000 interest free loans

From today, May 24 2021, the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) became the first jurisdiction in Australia to incentivise EV uptake, by offering a raft of measures it hopes will reduce the territory’s emissions, and provide great zero-emission vehicle choice to its residents.

Already offering zero stamp duty for zero-emissions vehicles, the Labor-Greens government has added two years free registration (a saving of $317-573 per year depending on vehicle weight) and the ability to access an interest-free loan of up to $15,000 to assist with the purchase of an EV.

The ACT’s nation-leading incentives show a firm commitment to address emissions within the territory, and is part of a broader plan to support clean energy job-creation, decarbonise public transport, and roll out a fast-charging network. More information can be found on the ACT Government’s website.

Under the ACT government’s new incentives, MG’s ZS EV could cost around $28,990 with the $15,000 interest free loan applied. Image: MG Motor Australia

Policy certainty is key to receiving investment from overseas manufacturers in Australia, and increasing consumer choice in the marketplace. “We already adopted a zero-emissions vehicle action plan in 2018, and it was first and foremost about transitioning our own government fleet.” according to Shane Rattenbury MLA, Attorney-General and Minister for Water, Energy, and Emissions Reduction, who spoke with us on a recent podcast. “We wanted to help create a more stable market so that the car companies would start bringing vehicles to Australia. We now want to move into encouraging more private uptake.”

The ACT should also be commended for recognising that cost is a huge barrier to entry into a zero-emissions vehicle for many Australians, and that by electrifying government fleets, they are creating a secondhand EV market in three or four years time.

The ACT government has also committed to electrifying their entire bus fleet, and has recently acquired 20 hydrogen fuel cell Hyundai Nexo vehicles — the first hydrogen vehicles to be registered in Australia — which it will lease from the Korean manufacturer.

You can view our full interview with Shana Rattenbury MLA below.

Volta Trucks amps up its electrification strategy with new electric trucks and market expansion

The Volta Zero is targeting London as an initial launch market. Images: Volta Trucks

• Four battery-electric Volta Zero vehicles to be offered from 7.5 to 19 tonnes.

• Volta Trucks projects volumes to exceed 27,000 units per year by 2025.

• Market expansion via Europe-first city-specific strategy, with launch markets, expanded from London and Paris to include wider European cities.

• Vehicle manufacturing strategy to locate facilities close to core markets.

• Volta Trucks lays out its Road-to-Zero Emissions strategy with a road map to 2025.

UK electric truck startup Volta Trucks has outlined a Road-to-Zero Emissions strategy, crucial to following through with its promise to decarbonise the logistics industry. With many European cities implementing low or zero-emission zones, Volta Trucks intends to be ahead of the curve by rolling out four fully electric commercial vehicles by 2025.

Announcing the company’s Road-to-Zero Emissions strategy, Chief Executive Officer of Volta Trucks, Essa Al-Saleh, said:

"We have seen huge success since launching the 16-tonne Volta Zero in September 2020. We have significant tail winds with zero emission large commercial vehicles, thanks to forthcoming legislation changes that are driving demand, as well as many customers with uncompromising sustainability agendas wanting to purchase the most environmentally focused vehicles for their fleets. This has created a very strong order book that encourages us to rapidly accelerate our plans.

Volta Trucks will introduce its brand with the 16-tonne Volta Zero, expected to commence production late in 2021, followed by 19-tonne and 12-tonne variants in 2023. According to Volta, the most affordable of the range, a 7.5-tonne model, is currently in the early design development phase and will enter production in late-2024.

Volta Trucks plans to revolutionise logistics fleets with the Zero.

Volta Trucks will adopt a network manufacturing strategy, planning a number of assembly facilities distributed across its key markets with a view to minimising unnecessary transportation and cost. Volta Trucks is currently engaged in the ‘expressions of interest’ phase of the repurposing of Nissan’s former factory in Barcelona. Ultimately, Volta Trucks is considering a number of additional manufacturing locations across Europe, North America and Asia, to be able to achieve a significant volume ramp up from launch.

Volta Trucks announced last year a large purchase of 1,000 full-electric large commercial vehicles by Petit Forestier, Europe’s largest refrigerated commercial rental fleet. The company holds over $260 million USD in orders as of January 2021.

The company also plans to revolutionise commercial logistics fleets, by offering a Truck as a Service ("TaaS") option for fleet managers to accelerate the electrification of their fleets, while paying a single, monthly fee for a vehicle inclusive of servicing, insurance and maintenance.

SEA Electric to purchase 1,000 battery sets from Soundon New Energy Technology Co for electric trucks

Global automotive technology company SEA Electric has expanded its global reach through the purchase of 1,000 electric vehicle batteries from long-time technology partner Soundon New Energy Technology Co. The newly formed arrangement immediately follows SEA Electric’s recently announced US$42 million in equity financing.

Soundon has been providing SEA Electric with batteries since 2012, and the two companies have worked together closely on the development of seven SEA-Drive battery solutions over the course of the nine year relationship. SEA Electric is leveraging the cost benefits of Soundon’s battery and power electronics technical expertise, and their production efficiencies. The deal also allows SEA Electric to realise a significant 36 percent reduction in kilowatt hour (kWh) unit cost, and fulfilment of the battery production is expected to be completed in Q2 2021.

Soundon New Energy Technology’s manufacturing centre in China. Image: SEA Ealectric

According to Tony Fairweather, SEA Electric president and founder, Soundon is not only a world-class leader in innovation and battery technology, but highly regarded for its product quality, on time delivery, and competitive pricing. “Our long-term relationship with Soundon has been a very successful commercial journey and we anticipate continuing to share our global successes along the way.” While the majority of the initial 1,000 battery units are slated for the United States, the balance will go to SEA Electric inventories in Australia, New Zealand and Southeast Asia, along with the company’s first entry into the European market.  

SEA Electric’s SEA-Drive technology fits hundreds of OEM platforms according to the company, with this large order from Soundon shared cross three major power-system models:

An Isuzu truck with SEA-Drive technology. Image: SEA Electric

• SEA-Drive 70 – contains 88 kilowatt hours (kWh)

• SEA-Drive 100 – contains 101 kilowatt hours (kWh)

• SEA-Drive 120 – contains 138 kilowatt hours (kWh)

Wu Peng, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Soundon commented that “this is a significant milestone in our partnership with SEA Electric. Receiving this 1,000-unit order not only facilitates SEA Electric’s substantial global growth, it also positions Soundon as a leader in the export market for commercial electric vehicles. It’s a winning proposition for all.”

With global headquarters and key leadership in Los Angeles, SEA Electric currently has operations in five countries and more than one million miles of independent Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) testing and in-service operation in all markets.

SEA Electric is an Australian success story, and currently partners with commercial vehicle OEMs, dealers, operators and upfitters to deliver zero-emissions trucks around the world. The company is expected to deliver more than 1,000 electric commercial vehicles this year. The company forecast is to have more than 15,000 vehicles on the road by the end of 2023.

Soundon New Energy Technology’s manufacturing centre in China. Image: SEA Ealectric

An example of SEA Electric’s SEA-Drive unit for OEMs. Image: SEA Electric

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Australian commercial EV manufacturer SEA Electric completes US$42 Million equity financing

The SEA-Drive Power System. Images: SEA Electric

Founded in Australia in 2012, SEA Electric Holdings Pty Ltd. (SEA Electric) has become an international success story with its proprietary electric power-system technology (known as SEA-Drive®) now found across the world's urban delivery and distribution fleets.

With products in seven countries including USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, Indonesia and South Africa, SEA Electric has more than one million miles of independently OEM-tested and in-service operation behind its technology. 

This week, SEA Electric announced it has closed initial private placement equity financing for total gross proceeds of approximately US$42 million.  The net proceeds from the investment will allow SEA Electric to solidify its position as a market leader in the electrification of commercial vehicles whilst funding its considerable backlog and facilitating more pilot programs with operators. 

According to President and Founder Tony Fairweather, the financing allows SEA Electric to accelerate its global sales efforts and further utilize its proprietary Sea-Drive® 120b battery power system, while strengthening the delivery and distribution transportation segment for vehicles that operate in urban and metropolitan areas. 

SEA Electric issued approximately 1.1 million Series A Preferred Shares at a price of US $40.1995 per share, convertible into common shares of SEA Electric at the option of subscribers and automatically convert to common shares under certain conditions, including SEA Electric completing a public transaction.

Fairweather stated, “We are very pleased to have completed a heavily oversubscribed equity financing and are excited to welcome aboard a global set of institutional investors as partners. The financing allows SEA Electric to grow our backlog as we explore options to seek a public listing in the United States this year.”

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SEA Electric currently partners with commercial vehicle OEMs, dealers, operators and upfitters to deliver a new range of zero-emissions trucks and is on schedule to deliver more than 1,000 electric commercial vehicles this year.  The company forecast is to have more than 15,000 vehicles on the road by the end of 2023.

“2021 will see a paradigm shift in the way developed markets facilitate uptake of commercial electric vehicles and the unstoppable momentum will build year-after-year” said Fairweather. 

It is a notable achievement that in the face of lacklustre government support for clean technology in Australia, a company like SEA Electric has successfully conquered the international market in eight years. Companies like SEA Electric, Tritium and Evans Electric exemplify the technical and creative capital that exist in Australia that must be nurtured to support jobs, manufacturing and the transition to clean energy technologies.