Harbinger Motors Inc., based in Garden Grove, California, has successfully raised $160 million in funding, which will support its next growth phase. This financing comes alongside a significant order from FedEx for 53 electric delivery truck chassis, marking the shipping giant’s first venture into the medium-sized electric vehicle chassis market with Harbinger.
In an interview, Harbinger CEO John Harris highlighted the importance of this order, stating, “Among delivery vehicles in general, not just FedEx, it’s one of the largest orders.” This partnership signifies a pivotal moment for both companies, as FedEx’s investment reflects its commitment to sustainable logistics solutions.
The order for Harbinger chassis represents a strategic move for FedEx, according to spokeswoman Savannah Haeger. It is the first time the company has combined an order in the electric chassis sector with an investment in an EV manufacturer. This follows a separate deal made in May 2024, where FedEx purchased 150 Blue Arc trucks from Michigan-based Shyft Group Inc., the largest transaction of its kind to date. Notably, Shyft is not affiliated with Harbinger.
The latest funding round for Harbinger was co-led by FedEx, Capricorn, an investment firm focused on electrification, and recreational vehicle manufacturer THOR Industries from Elkhart, Indiana. Since its founding in 2021, Harbinger has raised over $358 million from various investors, demonstrating strong confidence in its business model.
As part of the funding announcement, Harris reiterated the significance of FedEx’s order. The 53 electric chassis are expected to be delivered by the end of the year, which aligns with FedEx’s broader sustainability goals. Harris noted the shift in market dynamics, stating, “Traditionally, the biggest fleets in the U.S. haven’t placed any big orders into electrification.” He emphasized that small orders do not substantially impact the market.
The electric vehicle (EV) truck market has undergone considerable changes this year, particularly as tax incentives for electric chassis have diminished. Despite these challenges, Harris reported a surge in interest from the transportation sector, with many competitors retreating from the market. For example, Amazon had been testing General Motors’ BrightDrop electric vans as part of a plan to deploy 100,000 electric delivery vehicles by the end of the decade, but GM recently halted the BrightDrop project.
Harris expressed confidence in Harbinger’s position, stating, “We don’t view the BrightDrop vehicle as a competitor to us.” He also pointed out that Amazon has invested in Rivian, which has been supplying custom-built electric delivery vans since mid-2022.
Over the past year, Harbinger has expanded its workforce from approximately 250 to 400 employees, as it aims to increase production capacity at its Knott Avenue facility in response to rising demand. The company plans to enhance its sales and service operations nationwide. Harris mentioned that there are numerous potential expansion projects under consideration, both within California and beyond.
Harbinger, which relocated its headquarters from Gardena in July 2024, has previously received orders from clients such as Bimbo Bakeries USA and Mail Management Services Inc. The company was co-founded by Harris, who has a background in defense technology and EV startups, alongside chief technology officer Phillip Weicker and chief operating officer Will Eberts, both of whom have extensive experience in the electric vehicle industry.
Looking ahead, Harbinger’s growth trajectory appears promising, with strong backing and a shift in market interest toward medium-sized electric delivery solutions. As the EV landscape continues to evolve, partnerships like the one between Harbinger and FedEx are likely to play a crucial role in shaping the future of sustainable transportation.
