East Zion Initiative Welcomes Lightning eMotors ZEV3 Passenger Vans to Provide Zero-Emission Transportation for Park Visitors

Lightning eMotors (NYSE: ZEV), a leading provider of all-electric powertrains and medium-duty and specialty commercial electric fleet vehicles, announced today the deployment of two of its Lightning ZEV3 Class 3 passenger vans with the Utah Clean Cities East Zion pilot shuttle program.

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Two Lightning ZEV3 electric shuttles delivered to the Utah Clean Cities Coalition’s EVZion project for visitor shuttle services into Zion National Park (Photo: Lightning eMotors)

The public-private initiative is a landmark demonstration of how industry, federal and local agencies can come together to demonstrate smart mobility solutions that increase regional resiliency and connectivity. As part of a pilot program that began in 2019, EVZion has developed a zero-emission, electric vehicle (EV) shuttle system to demonstrate the efficiency of electric vehicle transportation in rural gateway communities. The first Lightning eMotors ZEV3 shuttle buses included in this program were deployed on August 22, 2023.

“The opportunity to work with the Utah Clean Cities team and our partners to demonstrate the viability and scalability of all-electric, zero-emission passenger systems aligns perfectly with our mission and vision,” Nick Bettis, VP of marketing and sales operations at Lightning eMotors, said. “As the only electrified vehicle provider actively delivering customized, fully electric Class 3 shuttles and a robust range of charging solutions, Lightning eMotors is excited to be part of the EVZion project.”

"Introducing right-sized vehicles like these shuttles offers a solution that addresses safety and congestion concerns at the park head-on,” stated Tammie Bostick, Utah Clean Cities Executive Director and project lead of the EVZion project. “The historic Mt. Carmel Tunnel, an iconic landmark since its inauguration on July 4, 1930, has long struggled with accommodating oversized vehicles and maintaining a safe traffic flow. By adopting these shuttles, tailored to the tunnel's dimensions, we're taking an active step towards ensuring a two-way traffic flow that eliminates the frustrating hours and miles of backed-up vehicles. This approach not only respects the park's history but also paves the way for a more enjoyable and secure experience for all visitors.”