One of the latest entrants into the competitive zero-emissions commercial truck market, ZM Trucks, is making strategic moves to establish a presence in North America. The company, a subsidiary of Asia-based ZO Motors, has announced the opening of its first North American manufacturing plant in Fontana, California. The new facility, which will also serve as its regional headquarters, marks a significant step in ZM Trucks’ expansion efforts.

The 210,000 square-foot plant is designed to produce up to 100,000 units annually, reinforcing the company’s commitment to scaling operations within the U.S. market. ZM Trucks plans to offer commercial vehicles powered by battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell (FCEV) technology, with a hydrogen combustion option expected to follow at a later stage.

“Our new Fontana facility reflects ZO Motors’ commitment to the U.S. market and sustainable innovation,” stated Joost de Vries, CEO of ZO Motors. “This expansion allows us to deliver zero-emission solutions that lower total cost of ownership and drive long-term value for our customers.”

De Vries, who previously held executive roles at Tesla and Fisker, brings industry experience to ZM Trucks as it enters the North American commercial vehicle sector. The company made its public debut last year at the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo in Las Vegas, where it secured an order for 900 units from global investment firm 32Group.

Scaling Operations for Global Expansion

ZM Trucks’ parent company, ZO Motors, operates a manufacturing facility in Cambodia that serves the Asian market. The addition of the California plant is expected to enhance the company’s production capabilities as it seeks to expand into global markets.

The company aims to offer a comprehensive range of zero-emission trucks, including a Class 3 cargo van and a Class 8 tractor with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 154,000 pounds.

“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,” de Vries explained. “ZM Trucks will offer tangible financial, operational, and regulatory competitive advantages, such as improved cost-per-mile performance, decreased downtime for maintenance, better city-center access due to noise abatement regulations, and enhanced driver comfort.”

Challenges and Industry Outlook

The zero-emissions commercial truck market is rapidly evolving, with several established and emerging manufacturers competing for market share. Factors such as regulatory requirements, infrastructure development, and fleet adoption rates will play a crucial role in determining ZM Trucks’ success in North America.

The Fontana plant’s operational capacity suggests ambitious production targets, though real-world performance, market reception, and execution will ultimately define the company’s trajectory. With its strategic positioning and backing from ZO Motors, ZM Trucks enters the North American market with a foundation that could support sustainable growth in the evolving commercial transportation sector.