The development program includes close collaboration and will involve the engineering and integration of Enova’s 120kW and 90kW all-electric drive system technologies into target FCCC chassis platforms, including the MT-45 walk-in van chassis. Freightliner’s highest volume MT-45 chassis offers a gross vehicle weight rating between 14,140 and 19,000 lbs. and maximum payloads of 10,000 lbs. The MT-45 chassis is used by a range of customers including UPS and Federal Express.

The strategic agreement consists of four phases that include the development of at least four vehicles and placement into national fleets. Design, engineering, integration, and testing activities will be conducted at the Freightliner Custom Chassis plant in Gaffney, SC and the Enova facility in Torrance, CA.

The companies have already begun showcasing their capabilities to potential customers and expect positive results from these initial demonstrations. Many national fleet operators currently served by the two companies have clearly stated their desire to deploy all-electric commercial vehicles in the 2010 timeframe.

Enova Systems is a worldwide developer and producer of all-electric and hybrid drive train technologies for commercial vans, trucks and buses. Enova’s non-invasive systems enable customers to integrate their drive system technology in either new vehicle or retrofit applications. Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation manufactures premium chassis for the motorhome, delivery walk-in van, and commercial and school bus markets. FCCC is a subsidiary of Daimler Trucks North America LLC (DTNA), a Daimler company.