Motiv Power Systems has deployed its first electric trolley with the town of Estes Park, Colo., with one more planned.
The town operates a free shuttle service during the peak summer tourism season and for several special annual events. Motiv supplied its Ford eQVM-approved EPIC F-53 chassis and worked with Hometown Trolley, who designed and built the custom body. With a capacity for 24 passengers, the trolley is designed to hold enough battery charge for eight hours of service.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony took place July 1 and included masked town staff and officials, including Estes Park Mayor Wendy Koenig, who remarked that the two trolleys would save 3,456 gallons of fuel over one season. Given a 10,000 annual mile usage with 104 miles per day, by switching from gasoline to electric, they estimate a 30-metric ton C02 reduction, according to Motiv Power Systems.
“Deploying an electric trolley in Estes Park, on the base of the Rocky Mountain National Park, sends a clear message: we care about sustainability, air quality and the health of our community,” said Vanessa Solesbee, CAPP, parking and transit manager, town of Estes Park. “We are pleased to partner with Motiv Power Systems, who’s delivered on their mission to free fleets from fossil fuels by providing many fleets electric versions of their vehicles, and today our first electric trolley. We hope this is the first of many electric vehicles for our community, setting an example for others to follow.”
Motiv’s electric trolleys offer zero tailpipe emissions and reduce operation and maintenance costs by up to 85 percent, according to the company, resulting in a lower total cost of operation over the vehicle’s life.
“Not only is the town of Estes realizing their sustainability goals with this beneficial application, but the unique design of the vehicle offers one of a kind views of the park and local terrain,” said Matt O’Leary, Motiv chairman and CEO. “Motiv partners with each customer from start to finish, including finding funding, navigating charging infrastructure, and coordinating with partners to make sure every detail of the project is seamless. This approach helped Estes Park focus on what they do best, showcasing the beauty of the region while at the same time improving air quality.”
