Decarbonization technologies developed by East End-based Optimus Technologies Inc. are being equipped in hundreds of new Class 8 Volvo trucks. The technology utilizes biodiesel, a fuel made from recycled cooking oil, agricultural byproducts and waste animal fats.
"At Optimus, we've accumulated more than 10 million miles of proof that our high-performance ecosystem of products works reliably in all operating conditions, providing a financially and environmentally sound solution for heavy-duty fleets," CEO Colin Huwyler said in a prepared statement.
The company is partnering with Fontaine Modifications, a nationwide provider of post-production services for trucks.
"The Optimus system provides a path toward lowering carbon emissions that can be employed in the near term with good results," Mike Randolph, Fontaine vice president of sales and marketing, said in a prepared statement.
Optimus prioritized biodiesel over electrification because of high-costs associated with electric trucks as well as the demand it would place on the electrical grid. Huwyler cited statistics that converting a truck to an electric vehicle increases operating costs by 94%.
This announcement comes approximately a year after Optimus raised $17.8 million and doubled its workforce.
