How did your experience at General Motors shape your current vision for VIA Motors?
At General Motors I had the chance to pioneer many of the technologies that are now broadly used across the industry, but the two vehicles that made the biggest impact were the EV1 and the Triax. The EV1 was the first modern purpose-built electric vehicle; it entered production in 1996 and captured tremendous interest. Later, recognizing its importance, the EV1 was selected to become a Smithsonian exhibit. With Triax it was the first time when an automaker debuted an electric drive skateboard - which essentially is a drivable chassis with electric motors and batteries. This breakthrough demonstrated the advantages of a single architecture that can be used across multiple vehicles with different powertrain systems.
VIA Motors was founded over ten years ago, when batteries were much more expensive than they are today, so we initially focused on hybrid conversion vehicles. As technologies evolved and became more cost effective, we ultimately concentrated all our efforts on electric drive. We like to say that we make tools not toys, since we are focused on commercial EVs that have a practical application both economically and technically (such as last- and mid-mile delivery of goods and services). We have an R&D center in Utah and an automotive technology center in Michigan; our long-term goal is to become a one-stop solution for fleets by offering not only electric vehicles but also charging infrastructure and financing solutions. Our goal is to make the commercialization of electric drive technology as seamless as possible.
Why are electric vehicles starting to dominate the market now, rather than before or after?
Internal combustion engines took the lead due to the low cost of production and widespread distribution of gasoline, but there were EVs on the market up until the 1930s. They were primarily used by upper-class women because they were a cleaner and easier-to-use alternative.
In the 19th century transportation was powered via animals, in the 20th century via engines and, now, in the 21st century, via motors since we are putting kilowatts to the road. We have not seen such a fundamental transition in the auto industry since the very early days, so we get to live through one of the most exciting times in history.
The complexity of the control systems in the modern automobile can easily rival some of the most advanced systems in the defense and aerospace applications. It is a sophisticated and intense industry where every aspect needs to be extra safe in order to cater to millions of users. Because of this, we must be diligent in every aspect of development and testing of a vehicle, even more so with the transition to electric drive that is unfolding in front of our very eyes.
What are the main advantages that EVs offer in comparison with internal combustion automobiles?
The cost per mile for electric drive versus petroleum-based fuels is a five to one advantage and the much lower maintenance costs are also tipping the scale in a significant way. EVs do not require fluid changes (e.g., oil) because they are sealed units and the regenerative braking system is also saving a lot of money on yearly maintenance. In an electric vehicle, the motors are slowing down the vehicle, regenerating energy to the battery, with less use of the braking pads, making them last longer than in traditional cars. Commercial fleets are doing a lot of stop and go driving so this feature has real value.
What is the future of VIA Motors in terms of commercialization?
We are pleased to have secured our first order for an electric school bus chassis. Delivering children to and from school is a great application for electric drive since the vehicles are used twice a day for relatively modest ranges and they generate no tailpipe emissions. Furthermore, we are developing new business with targeted major fleets including grocers, delivery of goods, and even waste management ventures. Performing useful functions in a sustainable and profitable way is the mantra that drives our business model as a company. All in all, we are creating a solution that benefits both the society and the companies that are involved in the process.
