Global manufacturer Hyundai and energy technology company Raser Technologies signed a memorandum of understanding last Thursday for the joint development of two flagship renewable energy and electric vehicle projects, dubbed “Wells to Wheels.”

The two projects will utilize Raser’s large holding of renewable resources and innovative powertrain technology, while taking advantage of Hyundai’s global manufacturing prowess. The two projects consist of building a 5 megawatt solar power project located in the Southwest United States and the development of 3 extended range electric trucks targeted at fleet customers.

The solar generation project will be built at Raser’s Thermo site in Southern Utah, and will utilize photovoltaic and electrical equipment manufactured by Hyundai. The plant will be co-located with an existing geothermal power plant, and be used as a showcase for the company’s zero emissions blended renewable development (ZEBRA). At a later date, wind will be blended into the power production mix creating better availability and reliability of power.

The first phase of the electric vehicle project will be to produce enough vehicles to fill standing orders by U.S. government and commercial fleets. The first trucks will be delivered to the nation’s largest utility, Pacific Gas and Electric, located in California.

Reprinted with permission from Sustainable Life Media