Podcast Show Notes - Optimo and EV Low-Floor Shuttle Buses

Guest: Jeff Hiatt, Executive at Optimal EV 

Site: www.optimal-ev.com

 Host: Jared Schnader

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Jared Schnader interviews Jeff from Optimal, a company at the forefront of electric vehicle (EV) innovation, particularly in the low-floor shuttle bus market. Jeff shares the company’s journey from its founding by Dr. Young in 1986 to becoming a key player in clean transportation solutions.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Optimo’s Origins and Evolution:

  • Founded in 1986 by Dr. Young as a computer-aided engineering service company.

  • Early adoption of full vehicle analytics, benchmarking, and work with initial EV startups.

  • The decision in 2016 to fully focus on EV development.

  • Introduction of the low-floor shuttle bus at the 2021 APTA Expo.

• The Low-Floor Shuttle Bus Concept:

  • Designed to address common issues in rider experience, focusing on dignity and accessibility.

  • Eliminates the traditional wheelchair lift in favor of a ramp system that allows independent boarding.

  • Uses a custom-built low-floor frame to replace traditional chassis, retaining only the cab and axles from Ford.

• Why Transit:

  • Driven by a passion for solving global clean transportation challenges.

  • Focus on providing a more inclusive, accessible transit solution.

• Challenges and Achievements:

  • Navigating Altoona testing and achieving Buy America compliance.

  • Partnering with Proterra for reliable, safe, and compliant battery solutions.

  • Dealing with market hesitancy and demonstrating product durability through extensive engineering and testing.

• Market Reception and Strategy:

  • Deliberate, cautious market entry to ensure product quality and company longevity.

  • Leveraging dealer networks for sales and service support, enhancing local market presence and maintenance capabilities.

  • Successfully overcoming challenges with proactive field support and responsive customer service.

Notable Quotes:

• "People have always loved low floors; it was just a matter of how to get a viable one to market." - Jeff

• "Our focus is on integrity and trust, and we want to be here 50 years from now." - Jeff

Final Thoughts:

Jeff emphasizes the importance of delivering a well-tested, durable product while maintaining a commitment to customer satisfaction. The episode provides insight into Optimo’s unique approach to building EV low-floor shuttle buses and their long-term vision for clean transit solutions.