New North American zero-emission commercial truck brand ZM Trucks debuts at ACT Expo

ZM Trucks, a new North American zero-emissions commercial truck brand, made its debut this week at the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo. ZM Trucks is a new Western subsidiary of Japanese manufacturer ZO Motors.

At the Expo, ZM showed off five truck models in the Class 4, 5, 6 and “baby8” segments, which the company expects to be on sale before the end of 2024. The company says each ZM Trucks model will be assembled in North America and compliant with all North American regulations, using existing platforms that have been established in Japan.

“ZM Trucks isn’t your typical untested startup. As a subsidiary of ZO Motors Tokyo, our zero-emissions vehicles are grounded in proven and reliable technology, as well as solid funding and access to supply chain resources and partnerships that would be out of reach for most brands starting out,” said Joost de Vries, chief executive officer of ZM Trucks.

ZM Trucks provides for cost-efficient charging, making battery electric vehicle driving hassle-free with powerful 20 kW AC charging solutions, alongside standard DC charging options. A standard 220v/100a circuit will allow for overnight charging. The trucks are designed with clean back-of-cab and chassis rails, enabling efficient and easy upfit solutions. With available dual electric Power Takeoffs (ePTOs) on all cab/chassis platforms, ZM Trucks are ready for the diverse challenges of the work truck world.

ZM Trucks also provides comprehensive support, aiding customers not only with initial paperwork to access State incentives but also with the ongoing reporting requirements, ensuring maximum retention of funds during the transition from diesel-powered trucks to zero-emission solutions. Beyond truck sales, ZM Trucks offers complete transportation solutions, including service, diagnostics, parts support, and a cloud-based fleet management system designed to optimize drivers and routes, all focused on reducing cost-per-mile.

ZM Trucks shared the following details and basic specs on the North American versions coming later in 2024:

ZM4 Class 4 battery electric van

132 kWh HV battery
Range: 150 mi / 242 km
Payload: 5,730 lbs. / 2,600 kg
Cargo: 497 cu ft / 14 mÑ
130 kW E-Axle with underfloor HV Batteries
AC Charging: 20% – 100% in 5.5 hrs

ZM8 Class 6 battery electric vehicle

Based on a platform that has been sold in Asian countries since early 2022
80 in. of roof height
Range: 160 mi / 260 km
Payload: 12,900 lbs. / 5,850 kg
200 kW e-axle with in-frame 132 kWh HV battery
ePTO: 15 kW + 30 kW
Box Sizes: 18-ft. – 22-ft.

ZM8 FCEV Class 6 fuel cell electric vehicle

Range: 186 mi / 300 km
Payload: 13,560 lbs. / 6,150 kg
Fuel Cell Power: 110 kW
Hydrogen Storage: 26 lbs. / 12 kg
Rapid Refueling: 5 min
ePTO: 15kW + 30 kW

ZM22 Class 8 battery electric vehicle

264 kWh in-frame HV batteries and a two-speed, dual motor e-axle capable of 500 kW peak power
Range: 162 mi / 260 km
Payload: 34,060 lbs. / 15,450 kg
ePTO: 20kW + 60 kW
240 kW DC Charging: 20%-80% in 36 min
Box Sizes: 22-ft. – 26-ft.

ZM22 FCEV Class 8 fuel cell electric vehicle