Proterra to supply batteries for Nikola trucks

Nikola Corp. and Proterra Inc. have announced a multi-year supply agreement to power Nikola zero-emission semi-trucks with Proterra’s battery technology.

The Proterra product is expected to be incorporated in the Nikola Tre battery-electric vehicle (BEV) and Tre fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV). The first Proterra Powered Nikola semi-trucks are expected to be produced in the fourth quarter of 2022, with Proterra delivering prototype systems to Nikola starting in the second quarter of 2022.

“Class 8 trucks play a vital role in the U.S. and global economy but today are some of transportation’s worst polluters. Decarbonizing the trucking industry is core to Proterra’s mission and we are excited to join Nikola on this journey to help drive heavy-duty trucking to zero-emissions,” said Gareth Joyce, Proterra CEO.

“With the growing demand for the Nikola Tre BEV and FCEV, we have actively pursued battery supply through a dual source strategy,” said Mark Russell, Nikola CEO. “We look forward to collaborating with Proterra, which is expected to bring industry-leading heavy-duty EV battery solutions to Nikola’s battery-electric and fuel cell electric vehicle platforms.”

Designed and manufactured in the United States, Proterra battery systems leverage industry-leading energy density and a customizable design to fit within a variety of vehicles.

Based on the Iveco S-Way truck platform with an electric axle co-designed and produced by FPT Industrial, the Tre BEV is designed for local deliveries up to 350 miles while the Tre FCEV truck is targeted for distances up to 500 miles and is expected to address the North American regional market, especially when additional hauling capacity or quick fueling are required by fleet operators.

Iveco and Nikola have dedicated a factory in Ulm, Germany, for the Nikola Tre trucks. The first Tre BEV models produced there are destined for select customers in the United States this year. The FCEV prototype of the Tre is expected to enter production in Ulm by the end of 2023.