Ford’s new “eQVM” certification shows that XL Hybrids’ electrification solutions meet stringent guidelines for upfitting Ford vans and work trucks; Ford displayed XL Hybrids-upfitted truck in the Ford booth this week at the 2017 NTEA Work Truck Show.
XL Hybrids Inc., a leader in connected fleet electrification solutions for commercial and municipal fleets, announced that the company has been awarded Electrification Qualified Vehicle Modifier (eQVM) status in the new Ford certification program. The Ford eQVM program helps fleet and commercial customers meet their unique and specific needs for durable, reliable electrified hybrid work trucks that retain the original powertrain warranty. By expanding its Qualified Vehicle Modifier program to include electrified vehicles, Ford recognizes the value of plug-in electrified and hybrid electric vehicles for comprehensive and innovative fleet fuel efficiency and sustainability programs. XL Hybrids was first recognized with the eQVM status in December 2016 by meeting the high standards for design, manufacturing and quality controls for upfitting new Ford vans and trucks.
“We are honored to be the first modifier certified in Ford’s new eQVM program,” said Dr. Ed Lovelace, XL Hybrids’ chief technology officer. “Another major distinction is that XL Hybrids is both an eQVM technology provider and an eQVM installer at our Boston facility. Several of XL Hybrids’ Ford ship-thru upfit partners supporting the Kansas City, Missouri, and Avon Lake, Ohio, Ford truck plants also have completed the eQVM Installer audit process.”
XL Hybrids’ electrification solutions for fleets include its award-winning XL3 Hybrid Electric Drive System, as well as its recently announced XLP Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle solution. Currently XL Hybrids sells electrification system upfits for the full range of Ford Class 2 and larger vehicles, including the Transit, E-Series and F-Series platforms. XL Hybrids’ electrification systems have been installed via serial OEM ship-thru production at upfitters since launching its products more than four years ago.
Ford has had a QVM program for vehicle modifications since the mid-1980s. Several years ago, Ford asked XL Hybrids to participate in developing the electrification “eQVM” program, which includes Ford’s common vehicle modifier guidelines, while also developing additional guidelines specific for electrification solutions.
“XL Hybrids’ business and technology strategy has been designed to align with Ford’s corporate electrification vision, while at the same time providing cost-effective fleet solutions that complement Ford’s chassis, gas powertrain and safety systems,” said Clay Siegert, co-founder and chief operating officer of XL Hybrids. “We retain everything that is great about Ford’s products by replacing only the OEM driveshaft to deliver a complementary electrification solution. Our solutions are Fleet-Ready because we are building on an OEM product that fleets trust for operations and durability, while maintaining Ford’s warranty.”
During the NTEA Work Truck Show, which took place this week in Indianapolis, the XL Hybrids’ Ford E350 – 450 6.2L engine cutaway chassis is being featured in Ford’s booth No. 3239.
