Harbinger’s Electrifying Focus: Revolutionizing Mid-Duty Vehicles with its Cutting-Edge Electric Platform

Harbinger Motors, a startup based in Garden Grove, California, believes it has found a niche in-between all-electric cars and electrified long-haul trucks. The company is focused on developing battery systems for mid-sized vehicles like delivery trucks and recreational vehicles. Harbinger has designed and is building electrified chassis for Class 4 to Class 6 medium-duty vehicles, which are integral to the economy and American lifestyle. According to John Harris, Harbinger’s CEO and co-founder, this approach offers a better business model compared to other electrified vehicle forms that have lower margins.

In contrast to cars, medium-duty vehicles have predictable routes and usage patterns, making it easier to determine their range needs. Harris highlights the example of a UPS truck, which lasts for 20 years and hundreds of thousands of miles, and consumes a large amount of fuel. By replacing these trucks with electric alternatives, significant emissions can be reduced while using the same amount of batteries as a high-spec Tesla Model S. This targeted approach has attracted $60 million in Series A funding from investors, including Ridgeline and Thor Industries, which plan to integrate Harbinger’s electric chassis for improved driver experience and vehicle operation.

One investor with a particular interest in Harbinger’s success is the Coca-Cola System Sustainability Fund, as Harbinger’s vehicles align with the mid-duty usages of Coke’s delivery trucks. Harris also mentions a variety of other applications for their chassis, including parcel and mail delivery, bakery delivery, and automotive support. Harbinger’s future vehicles will primarily serve commercial delivery customers.