Lightning Hybrids Opens U.K. Subsidiary

Colorado-based manufacturer of hybrid systems designed to transform buses and trucks in urban environments into cleaner, more efficient vehicles has announced the opening of its offices in the UK.

Tim Sherwood, Managing Director of international business, will direct the initiative to expand the Lightning Hybrids technology with commercial and municipal customers outside the US. Lightning Hybrids’ new UK office will be the hub for customer development, supply chain fulfillment and employee growth across the UK, Europe and India.

The company’s first hybrid systems in the UK were delivered and installed this month and went on the road last week in two large local fleets.

“Expansion into the UK is a key strategic goal for Lightning Hybrids because of the high prices of fuel outside North America as well as the greater emphasis on reduction of vehicle emissions to address smog concerns,” says Sherwood. “Our product will help fleets by providing 20 to 35% better fuel efficiency and 50% or greater reduction in NOx, the primary ingredient of smog. I personally am thrilled to be here and look forward to positioning the company and our innovative product as a must-have for fleets throughout the UK and beyond.”

The advance is fueled in part by an investment from UK-based Castrol innoVentures, Castrol’s venture and innovation arm, as well as from Factor(E), the venture development firm affiliated with Shell Foundation and Colorado State University. “Performance and innovation that respect the environment are key drivers for our company,” said Jon Salkeld, Technology Director, Castrol innoVentures.

“Supporting innovative automotive research and manufacturing companies like Lightning Hybrids is an important aspect of our future; nurturing the next generation of engineering that supports greater fuel efficiency and helping us define future products,” he added.

Category: General Update, Green