Navistar has expanded its eStar dealer network with the addition of Westrux International in Santa Fe Springs, Calif. Westrux will provide sales, service and support for Navistar's eStar truck, its all-electric vehicle.

"We're proud to provide service and support for eStar customers in Southern California," said David Kenney, president and CEO, Westrux International. "The greater Los Angeles region holds strong opportunities for commercial electric trucks due to its market size and dedication to clean vehicle technologies which reduce greenhouse gas emissions."

According to Navistar, the eStar is the first medium-duty commercial vehicle to receive U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certification as a clean fuel fleet vehicle as well as California Air Resources Board (CARB) certification as a zero-emissions vehicle. This Class 2C-3 electric truck has a range of up to 100 miles per charge, making it ideal for many urban applications. At the end of the day, it can be plugged in and fully recharged within six to eight hours.

"With the addition of Westrux International, Navistar is fully capable to support our customers through select dealers networked in our initial launch regions," said Mark Aubry, eStar's vice president, sales and marketing. "We believe customers will love the eStar because of its capabilities as an electric vehicle and won't have to change their fleet usage in order to take advantage of the truck's performance.

"Along with the advancements we've made in aerodynamics and fuel efficiency for heavy trucks, our comprehensive line-up of hybrid trucks and school buses, and now with the addition of the eStar all-electric truck, Navistar has the largest portfolio of energy-efficient, environmentally friendly trucks in the industry."

In August 2009, President Barack Obama visited Navistar's manufacturing plant in Indiana to present a $39.2 million grant funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and administered by the Department of Energy to develop and deploy electric trucks. Less than one year later, Navistar is taking orders and building these all-electric trucks.

With its low center of gravity and a 36-foot turning circle, the eStar is built with aerodynamics, a walk-through cab and a quick-change cassette-type battery that can be swapped out in 20 minutes. It is capable of carrying payloads up to two tons.

The eStar truck is produced through the Navistar-Modec EV Alliance, the joint venture between Navistar and Modec Limited of the United Kingdom.

More info: www.navistar.com