In a logistics world racing to electrify, charging infrastructure remains a massive bottleneck - too slow, too expensive, and too dependent on utility timelines. To tackle this challenge, Orange EV, a US manufacturer of purpose-built electric Class 8 trucks, has created and invested in OptiGrid, a new US-based company delivering battery-integrated fast charging solutions for fleets.

Headquartered in Kansas City, Kansas, OptiGrid eliminates the need for costly and time-consuming grid upgrades with a drop-in platform that pairs ultrafast EV charging with onboard battery storage. Designed specifically for fleet operators, OptiGrid’s solution reduces wait times for deployment, offering high uptime, low maintenance and the lowest total cost of ownership of any DC fast charger.

OptiGrid builds on the foundational technology developed by FreeWire Technologies, an early pioneer in battery-buffered fast charging. FreeWire, integrating battery storage, AC-to-DC conversion, power management and fast charger in one self-contained unit, made it possible to deploy ultrafast chargers in power-constrained locations without complex site work or utility delays.

Despite strong interest, FreeWire struggled to manufacture its product affordably and consistently, leading to downtime and rising support costs that ultimately outpaced the company’s ability to sustain operations. Trucking industry veteran Wayne Hoovestol recognized the core value of FreeWire’s technology and acquired its assets, including the intellectual property and engineering team, to focus on solving the issues of manufacturing reliability and serviceability while preserving the benefits of rapid, grid-independent deployment.

To operationalize his vision and accelerate commercialization, Hoovestol partnered with Kurt Neutgens and Wayne Mathisen, the founders of Orange EV, to create OptiGrid. Known for its manufacturing excellence, which produced profitable and highly dependable electric trucks, and its deep customer relationships, Orange EV provides the US manufacturing foundation and market access needed to bring OptiGrid’s reengineered charging platform to fleets at scale.

OptiGrid has a growing team of 50 employees across California, Colorado and Kansas, and is preparing for commercial launch later this year. Orange EV is OptiGrid’s first strategic partner and launch customer, enabling the delivery of seamless electrification for industrial fleets with end-to-end solutions, from vehicle to charger, delivered and supported by a US team.

OptiGrid chargers deliver ultra-fast EV charging anywhere without the need for costly utility or site upgrades. Each unit includes a 180 kWh battery that charges slowly from the grid or renewables, enabling rapid deployment. Fleet operators benefit from significantly reduced energy costs by avoiding peak demand charges and other energy services, all while maintaining full flexibility to charge when and where needed.