Workhorse Group, an American technology company focused on drone-integrated electric vehicles to the last-mile delivery sector, announced that its C-Series all-electric delivery trucks have received certification from the California Air Resources Board as zero-emission vehicles in the state of California. 

The executive order, given to vehicle manufacturers who meet specific emissions standards in compliance with CARB regulations, also designates Workhorse as first and only medium-duty battery electric vehicle OEM to receive approvals from both the Environmental Protection Agency as well as CARB.

The executive order also clears the way for the C-Series to be considered for the California Hybrid and Zero-Emission Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project. Vehicles permitted into the HVIP program are eligible for monetary vouchers to reduce total cost for the purchaser.

California as well as 13 other states have adopted vehicle standards under Section 177 of the Clean Air Act, which requires additional approvals beyond EPA regulations. Having received credentials from CARB and the EPA, Workhorse can sell its C-series electric delivery vans in every state throughout the U.S.

"As a next step, we will also be continuing with our efforts to be considered for the HVIP program, which we expect will be a major growth stimulus as more voucher funds become available in the future,” said Workhorse CEO Duane Hughes in a statement. “Going forward, this executive order will take on even more significance with CARB's recent Advanced Clean Truck regulation, which will require manufacturers of commercial vehicles to start selling electric options in 2024 and move exclusively to electric trucks in California by 2045."