Through a new agreement between Freightliner Custom Chassis Corp. and Enova Systems, FCCC will integrate Enova's 120kW and 90kW all-electric drive system technologies into certain chassis platforms.


The all-electric commercial chassis development program will involve four phases that include the development of at least four vehicles and placement into national fleets. The four phases, which include design, engineering, integration and testing, will be conduced at FCCC's Gaffney, S.C., plant as well as Enova's Torrance, Calif., facility.

The system will be integrated into FCCC's MT-45 walk-in van chassis, which offers a gross vehicle weight rating between 14,140 and 19,000 pounds and maximum payloads of 10,000 pounds.

"The technical, economic, and environmental factors driving increased demand for pure electric commercial vehicles are rapidly converging," said Robert Harbin, president of the Freightliner Custom Chassis division of DTNA. "Our partnership with Enova Systems on this important development program is a clear indication that the market for these vehicles is approaching. We look to Enova to help us achieve our goal of having a profitable, in-plant, EV production program in the near term."

"Our combined technologies and vehicle expertise will enable us to offer a wide range of flexible EV solutions that will ultimately allow us to gain market share in key segments," said Mike Staran, president and CEO of Enova.

The companies have already begun showcasing their capabilities to potential customers.