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- Optimal EV and Fontaine are retrofitting trucks and buses with new E1-R EV System, using Proterra’s batteries
Optimal EV and Fontaine are retrofitting trucks and buses with new E1-R EV System, using Proterra’s batteries
Optimal EV and Fontaine Modification Work Truck & EV Solutions have introduced a repower solution that converts conventional gasoline- or diesel-powered trucks and buses to zero-emissions electric power.
The new system, based on the popular Ford E-450 cutaway chassis, will be integrated by Fontaine into a variety of commercial vehicle applications at its network of post-production truck modification centers.
The E1-R platform, developed by Optimal EV, will support a range of work truck applications. The repowered vehicles will offer zero-emissions performance, safety, and durability for a variety of commercial vehicle applications.
The first range of repower solutions is for the Ford E-450 cutaway chassis, a model widely modified by upfitters throughout North America. The new E1-R allows upfitters to continue using a product they are familiar with, but with an electric powertrain.
The E1-R powertrain will be available on 2018 to 2023 model year Ford E-450 cutaway chassis. The powertrain offers 280kW/1700Nm(375hp/1254lb-ft) on tap, OEM E-450 equivalent 30% gradeability, and 125+ miles(201km) of range. The system features Proterra® 113kW batteries and all power electronics and high voltage cables protected inside the vehicle’s frame rails.
Each conversion begins with a detailed vehicle inspection. The repowered vehicles are equipped with a new powertrain and user interface, with refreshed components where required. The resulting repowered vehicle reenters its fleet with the performance and longevity of a brand-new vehicle and the zero-emissions EV capability engineered by Optimal EV.
Jason Hughes, SVP, Business Development at Optimal EV, commented on the repower opportunity: “We are excited to offer our customers another option allowing them to participate in the clean tech revolution that’s underway. In fact, repowering existing vehicles is an even greener solution than first-sale examples, as the carbon emitted in the vehicle’s manufacturing process has already been accounted for. Repower also immediately offsets previously invested sunk costs in the chassis itself. Add to that the fact that we are working with a world-class integrator like Fontaine, and it’s really a 360-degree win.”