ZM Trucks Establishes New Headquarters and Production Facility in California

Jan 29, 2025 at 11:40 PM
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In a significant move towards sustainable transportation, ZM Trucks, an emerging brand in electric commercial vehicles, has inaugurated its new global headquarters and production facility in Fontana, California. Spanning 210,000 square feet, this state-of-the-art center underscores the company's dedication to advancing zero-emission solutions for the commercial vehicle sector. The facility will play a crucial role in delivering environmentally friendly trucks that promise reduced operational costs and enhanced value for fleet operators. With plans to manufacture up to 100,000 medium- and heavy-duty electric vehicles annually, ZM Trucks aims to revolutionize the logistics industry by offering a diverse lineup of electric vehicles tailored to North American markets.

Founded by Asian OEM ZO Motors, ZM Trucks has quickly garnered attention due to its leadership team, which includes Joost de Vries, a former executive from Tesla and Fisker, as well as the CEO of DeLorean. De Vries' vision, encapsulated in his motto "the future was never promised," resonates with many advocates of electrification. Under his guidance, the company secured a substantial order of 900 units from 32Group at last year’s ACT Expo. This achievement highlights the growing confidence in ZM Trucks' ability to deliver reliable and cost-effective electric vehicles. The majority of these units are expected to be assembled at the new Fontana facility, which is set to commence production in the first half of this year.

The establishment of this facility not only signifies ZM Trucks' commitment to the U.S. market but also reflects the broader trend toward sustainable innovation in the automotive industry. By focusing on lowering total cost of ownership and driving long-term value, ZM Trucks positions itself as a leader in the transition to cleaner technologies. The company's product range will eventually include everything from Class 3 cargo vans to Class 8 terminal tractors, catering to various segments of the commercial vehicle market. One standout model is the ZM T70, a Class 8 terminal tractor with an impressive gross vehicle weight rating of 154,000 pounds, designed to meet the demanding needs of heavy-duty operations.

Despite some skepticism surrounding the adoption of electric trucks, particularly in light of recent policy shifts, the economic advantages of battery-electric vehicles remain compelling. For smart fleet operators, the choice is clear: electric vehicles offer superior total cost of ownership and reduced downtime compared to traditional diesel-powered options. As ZM Trucks ramps up production at its new facility, it is poised to become a key player in the electrification of commercial fleets, demonstrating that the future of transportation is indeed electric.