Trucking startup Harbinger has made strides in its relatively short existence by leveraging the versatility of its electric vehicle platform, which has now attracted a notable client in the emergency vehicle sector. In a recent announcement, Harbinger revealed that its chassis will support ambulances and larger mobile healthcare units for the long-established company, Frazer, marking a significant expansion of its applications.
The partnership will see Frazer produce ambulances and other healthcare vehicles using Harbinger’s hybrid chassis, which was previously introduced alongside a new energy storage venture launched with Airstream. This alignment illustrates how companies like Harbinger are thriving in the electric and hybrid vehicle market, despite challenges facing the passenger vehicle industry in the United States.
Harbinger’s co-founder and CEO, John Harris, emphasised the company’s winning formula: a flexible vehicle platform. This adaptable chassis can be modified in length and can integrate a range-extending combustion engine as needed. Despite being established just a few years ago, Harbinger’s platform has already been adapted for various vehicles, including RVs, FedEx vans, smaller box trucks, and now, ambulances. This adaptability has been a crucial factor in helping the startup secure over $300 million in funding.
Harris elaborated on the platform’s design, stating it offers multiple configurations, including three wheelbases and several powertrain options, all while maintaining 99.5% parts commonality. Such flexibility positions Harbinger as a frontrunner in the industry.
Frazer CEO, Laura Griffin, noted that adopting Harbinger’s hybrid system, primarily electric with a combustion engine for battery recharging, was a clear choice to enhance customer service by reducing operational costs and increasing uptime for the vehicles used by municipalities and medical entities.
In addition to the hybrid vehicles, Frazer will also procure Harbinger’s battery-based auxiliary power units. These units will replace traditional generators across both new and older vehicles, providing essential power to medical equipment without draining the vehicle’s primary battery or engine. Griffin highlighted the demand for robust, clean energy sources in emergency services, particularly because of the increasing reliance on power-driven equipment in ambulances.
Harris anticipates strong market potential for the auxiliary power units, regardless of Frazer’s hybrid vehicle purchases, as their utility spans various applications. With thousands of ambulances in operation, the growth prospects appear promising. He also mentioned growing interest from various industries, especially in California, where stricter regulations on gas generators are in effect. Many operators prefer cleaner battery solutions, not only for environmental benefits but also for cost savings.
Overall, the collaboration between Harbinger and Frazer has spotlighted the evolving landscape of electric and hybrid vehicles, especially in critical sectors like emergency services, as they move towards more sustainable energy solutions.
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