Efficient Drivetrains Inc. launches industry-first electrified work truck for agriculture applications

Efficient Drivetrains, Inc. (EDI), a global leader in advanced high-efficiency zero emissions hybrid and electric vehicle drivetrain solutions, has created an industry-first electrified work truck for agriculture applications.

The vehicle combines the benefits of a compressed natural gas (CNG) fuel system and plug-in hybrid technology and is geared to help agriculture fleets switch from petroleum-based liquid fuels to domestically available, cleaner-burning natural gas and electricity.

The zero-emissions vehicle features a unique technology collaboration between Efficient Drivetrains and A-1 Alternative Fuel Systems, integrating the EDI PowerDrive™ Plug-in Hybrid powertrain, and the A-1 CNG Frame-Mount (FM) natural gas system into a General Motors Class-4 work truck commonly utilized by the agriculture industry.

“Collectively, the agriculture industry in California is working proactively to improve air quality and exposure to particulate pollution from traditional diesel-based vehicles, and EDI is proud to contribute to this important initiative,” said Joerg Ferchau, CEO.

“Our technology collaboration with A-1 Alternative Fuel Systems, combines the value of electricity with cleaner-burning natural gas, delivering a full-powered, zero-emission capable truck, on a vehicle platform commonly utilized by the agriculture industry. We’re looking forward to continuing to develop commercially available electrified options for the agriculture industry at large.”

“A-1 is proud to collaborate with EDI on this initiative to help bring yet another clean energy vehicle option to the marketplace. Combining the experience and expertise of both A-1 and EDI made this project a great success and we look forward to continuing to be at the forefront of technological advancements in the alternative fuel arena,” said Josh Gilio, vice president, A-1 Alternative Fuel Systems.

The truck will be operated in California’s San Joaquin Valley, a 250-mile-long region susceptible to air pollution due to its bordering mountain ranges. The technology collaboration between EDI and A-1 Alternative Fuel Systems plays a critical role in helping California meet its long-term carbon reduction goals.

The new vehicle provides 40+ miles of all-electric, zero-emissions driving, and range extension utilizing CNG, resulting in a significant elimination of particulate matter that traditional diesel vehicles emit. Vehicle operators will experience the expected full power OEM truck performance without change to driver behavior, with the added benefit of zero-emissions driving, cleaner air for their workforce and the surrounding community, and significantly reduced fuel costs.

Efficient Drivetrains, Inc. (EDI) develops and markets a range of state-of-the-art PHEV and EV drivetrain solutions worldwide. A-1 Alternative Fuel Systems designs, engineers, manufactures and installs CNG/LNG/LPG fuel integration systems for medium and heavy-duty vehicles.