
One of the newest zero-emissions commercial truck manufacturers is making a go of success in the competitive North American market. ZM Trucks, a subsidiary of Asia's ZO Motors, has announced its first North American manufacturing plant in Fontana, California which doubles as the company's regional headquarters.
ZM Trucks says the new 210,000 square-foot facility will be capable of churning out up to 100,000 units annually. These commercial trucks will supposedly be offered with battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell (FCEV) powertrains and, at a later date, a hydrogen combustion option will arrive.
“Our new Fontana facility reflects ZO Motors’ commitment to the U.S. market and sustainable innovation,” said Joost de Vries, CEO of ZO Motors. “This expansion allows us to deliver zero-emission solutions that lower total cost of ownership and drive long-term value for our customers.”
De Vries previously had executive level stints at Tesla and the now-defunct Fisker.
ZM Trucks is a new player on the fast-emerging zero-emissions commercial truck space. It made its debut last year at the ACT Expo in Las Vegas where it received a 900-unit order from 32Group.
ZM Trucks
ZM Trucks aims to offer a complete lineup of zero-emission trucks, including a Class 3 cargo van and a Class 8 tractor with an impressive 154,000 lb. GVWR.
“ZM Trucks isn’t your typical untested startup. As a subsidiary of ZO Motors Tokyo, our zero-emissions vehicles are grounded in proven and reliable technology, as well as solid funding and access to supply chain resources and partnerships that would be out of reach for most brands starting out,” de Vries added. “ZM Trucks will offer tangible financial, operational, and regulatory competitive advantages, such as improved cost-per-mile performance, decreased downtime for maintenance, better city-center access due to noise abatement regulations, and enhanced driver comfort.”