Mullen Automotive (NASDAQ: MULN) has unveiled a strategic partnership with Emerald Transportation Solutions and the Papé Group to develop a refrigerated ('reefer') upfit for its Mullen THREE, a Class 3 all-electric truck. This collaboration marks a significant step towards sustainable transportation in the perishable goods sector, including frozen food, grocery, and beverage delivery industries.
The Mullen THREE, designed with a clean top-of-rail chassis, offers versatility for custom upfitting and boasts a payload capacity exceeding 5,300 lbs. This adaptability, combined with its all-electric powertrain, positions the vehicle as a potential game-changer in the commercial transportation landscape, particularly for businesses seeking to reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining efficient cold chain logistics.
In addition to its environmental benefits, the Mullen THREE and its smaller counterpart, the Mullen ONE, are eligible for state and federal incentives. This financial advantage could provide substantial cost savings for fleet operators, potentially accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles in commercial applications. The California Air Resource Board (CARB) has approved a cash voucher of up to $45,000 for the Mullen THREE through its Hybrid and Zero-Emission Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project (HVIP), further enhancing its economic appeal.
Mullen's expansion of its commercial dealer network to seven dealers, including the recent addition of Papé Kenworth, indicates growing market interest and potential for wider distribution. The company's strategic moves, including obtaining Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) status for its Tunica, Mississippi manufacturing center, suggest a focus on cost-effective production and export capabilities.
This development in electric refrigerated transportation could have far-reaching implications for the logistics industry, potentially reducing operational costs and environmental impact. As businesses increasingly prioritize sustainability, Mullen's innovative approach to combining electric vehicle technology with specialized transportation needs may set a new standard in the commercial vehicle sector.
