picture: ACT Expo 2025

At the 2025 Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) emerged as a focal point in the commercial transportation sector’s pursuit of sustainable solutions. The event highlighted the industry’s recognition of PHEVs as a pragmatic bridge between traditional internal combustion engines and fully electric powertrains, especially for medium- and heavy-duty applications.

PHEVs: A Strategic Middle Ground

The ACT Expo underscored the role of PHEVs in addressing the “messy middle” of fleet electrification – a term used to describe the transitional phase where fully electric solutions may not yet be feasible for all operations. PHEVs offer extended range capabilities and flexibility, making them suitable for fleets that require longer routes or operate in areas with limited charging infrastructure. This positions PHEVs as a viable option for fleets aiming to reduce emissions without compromising operational efficiency.

Harbinger’s Innovative Entry

Among the notable unveilings, Harbinger introduced its new plug-in hybrid platform tailored for medium-duty fleets. This vehicle combines an electric drivetrain with a gasoline-powered range extender, delivering up to 500 miles of range. The platform features a 1.4-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine paired with an 800V generator and a 50-gallon fuel tank, recharging the vehicle’s 140 or 175 kWh battery system. The electric powertrain delivers up to 440 horsepower and 1,140 lb-ft of torque, ensuring robust performance for various applications. An 800-volt electrical architecture enables rapid DC fast charging, achieving 80% battery capacity in under an hour. Designed as a stripped chassis, Harbinger’s platform is adaptable for multiple medium-duty vehicle configurations, including delivery vans, box trucks, recreational vehicles (RVs), and emergency response vehicles. Harbinger has partnered with Panasonic Energy as its official battery cell supplier, initially sourcing cells from Japan with plans to localize production at Panasonic’s new facility in De Soto, Kansas. The company designs, engineers, and assembles the chassis and its components in-house at its Garden Grove, California facility, ensuring quality control and cost efficiency. Harbinger is currently accepting pre-orders for the hybrid vehicle, with commercial deliveries slated to begin in 2026.

Industry-Wide Embrace of Hybrid Solutions

The expo also featured other manufacturers showcasing hybrid technologies, signaling a broader industry trend towards embracing PHEVs. These developments reflect a strategic approach to fleet electrification, acknowledging the current limitations of infrastructure and technology while still striving for environmental goals.

Looking Ahead

The 2025 ACT Expo highlighted the growing importance of PHEVs in the commercial transportation landscape. As the industry continues to navigate the complexities of fleet electrification, PHEVs offer a practical and immediate solution for reducing emissions and fuel consumption. With ongoing advancements and increased adoption, PHEVs are poised to play a critical role in the transition towards a more sustainable transportation future.

For more information on the latest developments in plug-in hybrid technology and other clean transportation solutions, visit the ACT Expo website.