Navistar says its eStar all-electric truck has generated significant interest in the marketplace since the company was commissioned to develop and deploy electric trucks one year ago.


Last August, President Obama came to Navistar's manufacturing facility in Wakarusa, Ind., to present a $39.2 million grant funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and administered by the U.S. Department of Energy to develop the trucks. Now, the truck is coming off the production line and making its way into fleets.

"In just the last two months, we've seen a number of customers-large and small-express interest in the eStar all-electric truck," said Mark Aubry, eStar's vice president, sales and marketing. "We've delivered eStar trucks to FedEx and Pacific Gas & Electric Company, and with vehicle orders in the pipeline, we continue to work toward our goal of building 400 units this year."

Navistar said it continues to build and develop its sales, service and support network through local dealerships in key markets.

Cascadia International Trucks of Tacoma, Wash., will provide all sales, service and parts needs for eStar customers in the region.

Navistar also has added dealers in California, including Riverview International Trucks of West Sacramento, and Westrux International of Sante Fe Springs, Calif. Navistar plans to open other Midwest and East Coast dealers within the next 45 days.

The eStar is available with many different financing options, including the option to be leased.

"Production of a commercial electric vehicle is a significant and important milestone for the marketplace," said Aubry. "To be able to offer flexible leasing opportunities is a first for any company in this space and shows Navistar's commitment to deliver innovative solutions to meet customer needs in newly developing areas, such as the eStar all-electric truck."

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.

More info: www.Navistar.com