Transport’s Future Puts On Display

Extended range, collaboration command the stage at expo

Several local electric vehicle companies introduced new products and services last week during the Advanced Clean Transportation Expo at the Long Beach Convention Center.

SEA Electric Holdings revealed its SV6 EV stripped chassis, with a proprietary SEADrive power system that “leads the industry in terms of range, driving performance, weight and environmental credentials,” according to the Torrance-based company. The chassis can be used to retrofit step vans that are often deployed for last-mile deliveries.

“We bring to the market a complete package that offers all of the functionality required from these vehicles, complete with a proven, reliable all-electric architecture,” Chief Executive Tony Fairweather said in a statement.

SEA Electric, founded in 2012, moved from Australia to Torrance in January 2020. Another Torrance business, US Hybrid Corp., which New York-based Ideanomics Inc. acquired last year for $50 million, announced the launch of a natural gas-powered parallel hybrid powertrain for drayage and long-haul trucks. The powertrain will have optional vehicle-to-vehicle charging capability – an industry first – and a range of about 1,000 miles per fuel fill.

Xos Inc. makes medium- and heavy battery-electric trucks that that travel less than 200 miles a day on last-mile, back-to-base routes. It also sells powertrains, charging infrastructure and fleet management software. The Glassell Park-based company showcased two new commercial electric vehicles at the expo – a Xos HDXT, a Class 8 heavy-duty electric tractor designed for regional-haul fleets that can travel up to 230 miles on a single charge; and Xos MDXT, a Class 6 or 7 medium-duty electric vehicle with a battery range of about 270 miles.

El Segundo-based EV Connect Inc., maker of EV charging station software that’s implemented at more than 6,000 chargers, said it formed a partnership with Merge Electric Fleet Solutions in Houston, to help truck fleet owners and operators switch to EVs.

“Fleet charging is a more complex, service-oriented business that involves a whole ecosystem of vendors and service providers, and collaboration is key for its ultimate success,” Jon Leicester, vice president of fleet at EV Connect, said in a statement. “Merge has a comprehensive, long-term electrification plan which sets fleets up for large-scale deployment and successful operations. This directly aligns with EV Connect’s position as the digital connective tissue between charging stations, vehicles and telematics, and fleet management systems.”