The prototype is unveiled at an event in Maryland

By Robert Fernatt: Member, West Virginia Electric Auto Association

I had a firsthand look at a prototype of the new Endurance electric truck today in Montgomery Country, MD. And, before anyone asks, the event was completely outdoors, masks were required, sanitizer was provided, the truck cabin was sanitized, and folks were keeping a respectful distance.

What was it like? Well, we didn't get to drive the vehicle unfortunately, but the exterior appeared to be complete and it was more attractive in person than in photos. Looking and feeling like a work truck, it would not be out of place on a construction site, a good thing since that's the market it is designed to serve. A very lite spec sheet was provided, although it was marked as subject to change.

The reps onsite did note that there would be a front trunk (frunk), but that it was unavailable for viewing as it is not in the prototype. The charging port was only Level 2 but the reps indicated that the finished model, expected to be available in Q4 of 2021, will support CCS DC fast charging. 

The Endurance is unique in that it uses electric hub motors embedded on each wheel. Central motors do not drive the wheels through shafts. The truck’s interior reflected the pre-production stage more than did the exterior, but overall it lines up well with other work trucks. The cab had plenty of room and appeared functional from an admittedly non-work truck guy's perspective.

Because the event was hosted by the Montgomery County Division of Fleet Management Equipment Maintenance & Transit Operation Center, transit buses were coming and going during the event. I was surprised to see a Proterra electric bus charger and I asked about it. Acting Division Chief Calvin Jones was exceedingly knowledgeable and gracious enough to speak at length about the efforts Montgomery County is undertaking to test not only Proterra buses, but other alternative fuel vehicles as well. 

All in all, a great visit and discussion! There wasn't a large crowd at any one time, but a steady flow of visitors pulled-up in Teslas and LEAFs.