Vicinity Motor Corp. (Vicinity) received an initial C$2.570 million (US$2.025 million) grant from Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC), a foundation created by the Canadian government for the development of zero-emission transit busses.
SDTC helps Canadian entrepreneurs accelerate the development and deployment of globally competitive clean technology solutions. The grant from SDTC will help Vicinity Motor to introduce its new all-electric, true low-floor wheelchair-accessible, mid-sized, medium-duty bus. This project creates an affordable new class of mid-sized, low-floor buses, providing versatility and an environmentally responsible alternative to buses with traditional combustion engines.
"We are honored and appreciate the significant initial support from SDTC to accelerate the development of the innovative design of the Vicinity Lightning EV which will mitigate exposure to energy and carbon costs," said William Trainer, founder and CEO, Vicinity Motor Corp. "As cities and governments around the world continue to establish climate goals, they are rapidly committing the funding needed for zero emission transit options like our breakthrough Vicinity Lightning™ EV.
"SDTC focuses developing and deploying new technologies with the potential to transform the environmental and economic prosperity of Canada. With this complementary mission between us, we look forward to our continued relationship with SDTC as a valued partner to enhance our growth and encourage adoption of electric vehicles within the Canadian market," concluded Trainer.
Leah Lawrence, president and CEO, SDTC, added: "Vicinity Motor's new Lightning EV bus will give municipalities a way to provide transit options that are both sustainable and accessible to all citizens, SDTC is proud to support Vicinity Motor Corp. as they continue to innovate and find cleaner options for moving people."
