Pasadena’s CALSTART Leads Charge in Zero-Emissions Vehicle Expansion

Pasadena-based nonprofit CALSTART, in partnership with the California Air Resources Board, announced on June 26 the availability of more than 150 zero-emissions truck and bus models through the state’s Clean Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project (HVIP).

CALSTART plays a crucial role in managing the HVIP program, which offers a diverse array of medium- and heavy-duty zero-emissions vehicles to fleet operators and independent owners across California.

Tor Larson, Vice President of Trucks, Off-Road, and Marketing at CALSTART, emphasized the local organization’s impact. “The HVIP project is a game-changer in the green transportation sector, offering a diverse array of vehicles that cater to various needs while promoting sustainability,” Larson said.

Launched in 2009 by the California Air Resources Board, HVIP is part of California Climate Investments, a statewide initiative aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The program, overseen by Pasadena’s CALSTART, provides financial incentives for the purchase of clean vehicles, including transit buses, school buses, and drayage trucks.

The HVIP website,  https://californiahvip.org/, managed by CALSTART, features a user-friendly interface that allows prospective buyers to easily navigate and find eligible vehicles. Users can access detailed specifications for each vehicle, including class type, battery information, and model year.

Dr. Sydney Vergis, Deputy Executive Officer at the California Air Resources Board, praised the collaboration with CALSTART. “The updated website makes key information available in one location, including incentive eligibility, vehicle specifications, and dealership availability,” Vergis said.

CALSTART’s involvement extends beyond HVIP. The Pasadena nonprofit manages more than $500 million in vehicle incentive and technical assistance programs in the United States. With offices in multiple states and Europe, CALSTART boasts more than 280 member companies, solidifying its position as a leader in transportation decarbonization.

The project also offers a set-aside program called Innovative Small e-Fleet (ISEF) for small trucking fleets. Additionally, interested buyers can access Cal Fleet Advisor, a no-cost advisory service for fleet technical assistance, both managed by CALSTART.

The expansion of zero-emissions vehicle options through HVIP aims to improve air quality and accelerate the adoption of clean transportation technologies across California. Fleet operators and independent owners are encouraged to visit the California HVIP website, maintained by CALSTART, for more information on how to go zero.

California Climate Investments, which includes the CALSTART-managed HVIP, is a statewide initiative that puts billions of Cap-and-Trade dollars to work reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening the economy, and improving public health and the environment—particularly in disadvantaged communities.

To learn more about the Pasadena nonprofit, visit https://calstart.org/.