Tembo Tusker is only the 2^nd full electric utility vehicle pick up truck to receive full on road homologation VTA regulatory approval in Australia

Tuskers can now be driven on road and off road in all states and territories across Australia

VTA regulatory approval provides platform for Tembo to accelerate sales and deliveries of Tuskers to customers across all of Australia

Tembo E-LV, a subsidiary of Nasdaq-listed B Corporation, VivoPower, is pleased to announce that it has secured full on-road homologation vehicle type approval (VTA) for Tembo Tusker 100% electric utility vehicles across the Australian market.

The approval secured by Tembo makes the Tusker only the second full electric ute to receive full on-road homologation in Australia.

VTAs are a critically important regulatory milestone in the Australasian pick-up truck market, which we estimate to be approximately US$10 billion. Without VTAs, vehicles are not considered homologated and cannot be legally driven on public roads across Australia and New Zealand. They are crucial for ensuring that vehicles, including EVs, meet essential safety, environmental, and anti-theft standards before hitting the road. Under the Road Vehicle Standards (RVS) legislation, these approvals – managed by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Communications – verify that EVs comply with stringent national regulations covering design, construction, and performance. As EV adoption accelerates, VTAs become vital in regulating new fully electric vehicle models in the market. They address unique EV-specific standards, such as battery safety and charging capabilities, helping manufacturers demonstrate compliance with local regulations. This not only enhances road safety but also builds consumer confidence in innovative EV technologies.

Tembo is currently in the process of securing similar clearance for Tuskers in New Zealand.

Chris Mallios, Chief Commercial Officer, VivoPower, said: “The Tembo Tusker range will augment our conversion programmes, increasing choices for Tembo’s B2B customer base and target market. Depending on where a fleet customer is in their fleet replacement cycle and/or depending on their strategic requirements and total cost of ownership considerations, we will now be able to offer a choice of a full electric utility vehicle or a conversion of an existing utility vehicle. This expanded offering underscores Tembo’s commitment to providing tailored sustainable energy solutions to meet the diverse requirements of our global customer base.”

 The Tembo Tusker range is available in single (Tusker-S) and dual-cab (Tusker-D) body configurations, with both 65Kwh and 77Kwh variants providing ranges of 330 km to 400 km, on a single charge, respectively. The vehicles will have a payload capacity of 1000 kg and an unbraked towing capacity of 750 kg. Tembo will now seek to fast-track its strategy of bringing the Tuskers to other markets where it has customers and partners, including the United Arab Emirates, Africa, Europe, Asia, and Canada, amongst others.

For the full version of the article, visit the VivoPower Press Releases page.

VivoPower International PLC ("VivoPower") is pleased to announce that it has signed a definitive agreement (“Agreement”) with Ulti-Mech Pty Ltd (“Ulti-Mech”) for Ulti-Mech to market, distribute and service Tembo-powered electric utility vehicles across Western Australia, home to half of Australia’s mines and the leading destination in the world for mining investment.

Ulti-Mech is a 100% Australian-owned and operated automotive service company headquartered in Newman, Western Australia. It has three locations enabling comprehensive coverage of Western Australia from north to south with plans to expand to two additional large mining towns in the Pilbara region, Tom Price and Karratha. The company provides specialised mining and 4WD automotive services through expert on-site advisors and highly qualified mechanics to leading large cap mining companies and their contractors.

Under the Agreement, Ulti-Mech has committed to sell a minimum of 1,000 Tembo EV conversion kits from execution of this Agreement over the next 5 years across Western Australia. Ulti-Mech will be responsible for acquiring utility vehicles, converting the vehicles to ruggedised Electric Utility Vehicles (“EUV”) using Tembo conversion kits, selling the units to end-customers and providing after-sale servicing and maintenance with support from Tembo.

The Tembo EV kits will transform new and second hand diesel-powered 4x4 LandCruiser and Hilux vehicles into ruggedised EUVs for use in the mining industry, as well as other sectors. Tembo EV conversion kits are a key component of VivoPower’s turnkey sustainable energy solutions, designed to help corporate customers accelerate towards their net zero carbon goals and to achieve cost savings.

Kevin Chin, VivoPower’s Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer said:

“Western Australia is one of the world’s largest mining markets and we have been seeking to partner with a well-established and highly reputed local leader in mine spec and 4WD automotive services. We are delighted to partner with Ulti-Mech and cater to its blue chip clientele, including some of the world’s pre-eminent mining companies. Ulti-Mech’s coverage across Western Australia is strategically important, given it is Australia’s largest state by land mass with mines located in remote locations from north to south. Importantly, Ulti-Mech is an Authorised Inspection Station service provider for the Department of Transport of Western Australia. We look forward to co-locating Tembo trained engineers across Western Australia, to support Ulti-Mech and its team to help its customers towards achieving their net zero objectives.”

John Adams, Ulti-Mech’s Founder and Managing Director said:

“I am thrilled to enter into a partnership with Tembo. With three locations in the heart of Western Australia’s mining market, we are perfectly placed to successfully supply and service the Tembo electric utility vehicle.  With increased pressure for mining companies to start their Net-Zero journey, the Tembo solution is a significant step in that direction.”

About VivoPower

VivoPower is an award-winning global sustainable energy solutions B Corporation company focused on electric solutions for customised and ruggedised fleet applications, battery and microgrids, solar and critical power technology and services. The Company's core purpose is to provide its customers with turnkey decarbonisation solutions that enable them to move toward net-zero carbon status. VivoPower has operations and personnel in Australia, Canada, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, the United States, the Philippines and the United Arab Emirates.

About Ulti-Mech

Ulti-Mech is a 100% Australian-owned and operated company, first established in the Pilbara mining town of Newman in Western Australia. The company has over the years built a highly experienced team with specialised knowledge across a range of mining and 4WD automotive services. Ulti-Mech has expanded into the Perth metropolitan and Southern areas of Western Australia with three locations strategically located to provide coverage to its customers throughout Western Australia.

All trademarks referenced herein are the property of their respective owners.

Forward-Looking Statements

This communication includes certain statements that may constitute “forward-looking statements” for purposes of the U.S. federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements that refer to projections, forecasts or other characterisations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intends,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “would” and similar expressions may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements may include, for example, statements about the achievement of performance hurdles, or the benefits of the events or transactions described in this communication and the expected returns therefrom. These statements are based on VivoPower’s management’s current expectations or beliefs and are subject to risk, uncertainty, and changes in circumstances. Actual results may vary materially from those expressed or implied by the statements herein due to changes in economic, business, competitive and/or regulatory factors, and other risks and uncertainties affecting the operation of VivoPower’s business. These risks, uncertainties and contingencies include changes in business conditions, fluctuations in customer demand, changes in accounting interpretations, management of rapid growth, intensity of competition from other providers of products and services, changes in general economic conditions, geopolitical events and regulatory changes, and other factors set forth in VivoPower’s filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. The information set forth herein should be read in light of such risks. VivoPower is under no obligation to, and expressly disclaims any obligation to, update or alter its forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions or otherwise.

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VivoPower is pleased to announce that the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Tembo e-LV B.V., have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with a Jordanian Organisation to sell, distribute and market 4×4 Toyota vehicles which have been fully electrified by Tembo (Electrified Vehicles) and/or the Tembo electrification conversion kit for Toyota 4×4 vehicles (Conversion Kits).

Under the proposed agreement, the Jordanian Organisation intends to sell 1,000 Tembo e-LV conversion kits from execution of this agreement until 30^th September 2027. The parties to the proposed agreement will work to finalise a Definitive Agreement as soon as practicable, and prior to 31^st December 2022, unless the parties agree to an extension. All purchase commitments will be subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Definitive Agreement.

In October 2021, VivoPower established itself in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to extend its services to the Middle East and surrounding markets. Today’s announcement is the first significant agreement for the subsidiary and progression of the company’s growth strategy for the region.

Tembo’s conversion kits transform diesel-powered Toyota Land Cruiser and Hilux vehicles into ruggedised electric light vehicles for use in mining and other hard-to-decarbonise sectors. Tembo e-LV products are a key component of VivoPower’s turnkey net-zero solutions for the decarbonisation of corporate and public organisations.

Kevin Chin, Executive Chairman and CEO of VivoPower, said: “We are very pleased to move forward on gaining a new partner for Tembo in the region. This is in line with our strategy to expand our commercial activities and operations in the Middle East, the largest market for Toyota Land Cruisers in the world, and naturally follows the establishment of our local subsidiary for the region in the UAE in October last year. We look forward to cementing this partnership and servicing Jordan with our decarbonisation solutions.”

To read our full press release, and to keep up with all of VivoPower’s releases, visit our Press Releases page.

VivoPower’s wholly owned subsidiary, Tembo e-LV B.V. (“Tembo”), has been awarded the ISO14001 certification. 

ISO14001 Environmental Management System is a certification given to companies seeking to manage their environmental responsibilities in a systematic manner. The organisation’s management system must be able to contribute to the environmental pillar of sustainability. 

As the ISO describes it, ISO14001 “helps an organisation achieve the intended outcomes of its environmental management system, which provide value for the environment, the organisation itself and interested parties.” 

In addition, Tembo has retained its ISO9001 Quality Management System certification which is given to organisations that demonstrate the ability to consistently provide products and services that meet customer and applicable statutory and regulatory requirements. The company should also aim to enhance customer satisfaction through the effective application of the system. 

Aside from the ISO recommendation, TUV SUD also provided a comprehensive list of opportunities for improvement for Tembo’s processes.  

The next ISO accreditation is scheduled for March 2023.

Atlas Iron is a leading iron ore explorer, developer, and producer based out of Western Australia

VivoPower is pleased to announce that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Tembo E-LV, has secured an initial order from Atlas Iron, a leading iron ore mining company based in Perth, Western Australia, and a subsidiary of the Hancock Prospecting Pty Ltd (HPPL). Atlas Iron operates the Mt Webber, Sanjiv Ridge, and Miralga mines.

Under the leadership of the Executive Chairman, Gina Rinehart, HPPL is the most successful private company in Australia’s history, and one of the most successful private mining companies in the world.

Kevin Chin, VivoPower’s Executive Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer, said: “We are delighted to be assisting Atlas Iron in their journey towards electrification and energy efficiency. With the opening of borders across Australia and Southeast Asia, we have been increasing our engagement with other groups and expect to be announcing additional orders in due course.”

To read our full press release, and to keep up with all of VivoPower’s releases, visit our Press Releases page.

Toyota Australia is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Toyota Motor Corporation,
the world’s largest car manufacturer

VivoPower has now established a Tembo Australia subsidiary and dedicated Tembo resources
to this Toyota Australia programme

VivoPower International is pleased to announce that it has executed a Design Services Agreement (DSA) with Toyota Motor Corporation Australia Limited (TMCA) for its wholly-owned subsidiary, Tembo e-LV to be commercially engaged in relation to the next stage of design of electrification solutions for the Toyota LandCruiser 70 for off-road applications in Australia.

The DSA reflects the commercial next step in Tembo’s collaboration programme with TMCA, which was initially announced as a binding letter of intent in June 2021. VivoPower has established a Tembo subsidiary in Australia and will commit dedicated Tembo resources to this important programme.

VivoPower’s Executive Chairman and CEO, Kevin Chin said: “We are honoured to have entered into this commercial agreement with TMCA and are fully committed to working closely with the TMCA team to deliver an electrified LandCruiser 70, which is fit for purpose and safe for corporate fleets, especially for off-road use cases such as mining. In this regard, we have now dedicated a team within Tembo that is solely focused on this important TMCA project. We will also be sub-contracting our partner in Australia, GB Auto, given their dedicated mining sector experience.”

To read our full press release, and to keep up with all of VivoPower’s releases, visit our Press Releases page.

About VivoPower

VivoPower is a sustainable energy solutions company focused on electrification solutions for customized and ruggedized fleet applications, and solar and critical power technology and services. The Company’s core purpose is to provide its customers with turnkey decarbonization solutions that enable them to move toward net-zero carbon status. VivoPower is a certified B Corporation with operations in Australia, Canada, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the United Arab Emirates.

About Toyota Motor Corporation Australia

Toyota Motor Corporation Australia Limited is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Toyota Motor Corporation, the world’s largest car manufacturer.

All trademarks referenced herein are the property of their respective owners.

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Investor Relations

shareholders@vivopower.com

Media Enquiries

vivopower@secnewgate.co.uk

Sophie Morello / Jessica Hodson Walker / Richard Bicknell

Electric light vehicles offer mining companies an effective way to cut their carbon emissions. Unlike petrol or diesel engine vehicles, EVs don’t produce any greenhouse gases. This makes them an excellent choice for working in enclosed spaces such as underground mines.

However, finding the right electric vehicle for mining isn’t easy. Mines often have some of the harshest working conditions around. EVs should be tough enough to withstand the wear and tear in such environments.

Tembo e-LVs are built to do exactly that. The Electric Cruiser and Electric HLX are as strong and as durable as their original Toyota counterparts. However, they’re more environmentally-friendly, thanks to their emissions-free E-Drive motors.

What are Tembo electric light vehicles (e-LVs)?

Tembo e-LVs are electric vehicles specially designed for use in rough environments. They are built from Toyota Land Cruiser and Hilux vehicles whose diesel engines have been replaced with electric motors. Original gearboxes have also been swapped out in favour of a Tembo 1:3 reduction gearbox.

Why convert the Land Cruiser or Hilux?

Mining companies work in some of the world’s harshest environments.  Their worksites can often be found in remote locations that are difficult to reach through traditional means. Workers need vehicles that are strong and durable enough to handle long drives on very rough roads.

Two of the most common vehicles used by mining companies are the Toyota Land Cruiser 70 series and the Toyota Hilux. They also have a powerful diesel engine that is more than capable of handling heavy loads. The only problem is that these engines won’t meet future emission standards.

To solve this, Tembo reimagined these workhorses as electric light vehicles. By replacing the diesel engine with an electric motor, Tembo makes these vehicles more environmentally-friendly. The electric vehicles still have the same rugged features as their original Toyota design, with a heavy-duty frame and powertrain that can operate even in harsh conditions. However, they are now 100% emissions-free.

How does it work?

The batteries for the Tembo e-LV can be found under the hood in front, and in the rear, where the fuel tank would normally be.

Tembo e-LVs make use of high-quality components from the automotive industry. Diesel engines and gearboxes have been switched out for battery-powered electric units.

One of the most noticeable features of driving a Tembo Electric Cruiser or Electric HLX is how easy it is to handle. The 110/65 KW E-Drive motor offers 250Nm of torque right from the beginning. This force is regulated by the onboard electric vehicle control unit (EVCU), resulting in a smooth driving experience.

The lack of a gearbox eliminates the need for cycling through different gears while driving. The E-Drive motor handles the vehicle’s entire RPM range from manoeuvring to highway speeds.

Tembo e-LVs also have a 4-wheel drive system with a central differential between the front and rear wheels. This effectively minimises the potential strain on the vehicle’s drivetrain.

Features of Tembo electric light vehicles

Smooth acceleration

Since Tembo has taken out the gearbox from the vehicle, there is no need to change gears while driving. This removes the jerking motion often seen in petrol and diesel engine vehicles when switching gears.

Tembo e-LVs have also been fitted with EVCUs capable of handling the gradual increase in power for the drivetrain. The control unit lessens the stress on the driveline and ensures a smooth driving experience.

Better weight distribution

One of the biggest challenges in making electric vehicles is where to put the battery unit. EVs rely on high-capacity batteries to make sure that they have enough power to operate. However, having multiple battery units on the vehicle adds to its total weight.

Tembo has addressed the problem by dividing the battery capacity over the front and the rear of its electric vehicles. This significantly improves weight distribution and prevents bouncing of the e-LV’s rear, which is a common issue when driving an empty pickup.

No engine noise

Unlike fuel engine vehicles, Tembo e-LVs don’t produce much noise. In fact, the only noticeable sound comes from the tyres touching the road while driving, drastically reducing the noise pollution that usually comes from big diesel engines operating in and around work sites.

Heavy-duty water- and dustproof battery housing

Another challenge when operating electric vehicles is how to keep batteries operating in different environments. Tembo e-LVs are designed with a heavy-duty battery housing that is both waterproof and dustproof.

Speed limiter

Tembo e-LVs come with a speed limiter to help drivers operate the vehicles according to their needs. This feature can be accessed through the dedicated software on the dashboard’s instrument panel.

Onboard diagnostics

To help keep Tembo e-LVs in optimal condition, we have also fitted them with several fleet management options. These can also be accessed via the onboard instrument panel.

Optional fire suppression & emergency failsafe brake systems

The Tembo Electric Cruiser and Electric HLX vehicles are designed with safety as the top priority, with options to include both fire suppression and emergency failsafe brake systems.

Tembo’s fire suppression system makes use of high-pressure water combined with a small amount of foam additive. The mixture addresses all three components of a chain reaction (heat, oxygen, and fuel) that can cause a fire.

Tembo can also add an emergency failsafe brake system to e-LVs to prevent accidents due to uncontrolled vehicle movement. This wet brake system can activate if the vehicle’s door suddenly opens whilst driving or if the E-stop button is pressed. It can also activate if the engine key is turned off.

The Tembo e-LV brake system is specially designed to improve brake reliability and vehicle safety. It can also help reduce vehicle operating costs.

Benefits of Driving Tembo e-LV Electric Cruisers or Electric HLXs

Since Tembo e-LVs are zero emission vehicles, they can be used in underground mines.

There are several advantages to using Tembo e-LVs in mining sites. Investing in an Electric Cruiser or Electric HLX fleet means zero petrol and diesel fill-ups. It also lets operators save money on costly oil changes and maintenance.

As 100% battery-operated vehicles, e-LVs also don’t release greenhouse gases.

Zero emissions

Two of the biggest challenges faced by mining companies are maintaining health & safety and clean air standards. Many workers who operate in underground mines rely on vehicles that run on diesel power. However, this exposes them to particulate matter that is very harmful to their health and wellbeing.

Using electric vehicles like Tembo e-LVs can help address this problem. Since they have electric motors instead of diesel engines, e-LVs don’t produce any C02 emissions. This reduces the amount of particulate matter in the air of an underground operation, helping workers to avoid serious health risks often associated with breathing polluted air.

Less noise generation

Air pollution isn’t the only problem that Tembo electric light vehicles can solve. They can also help lessen the level of noise pollution, particularly inside underground mines.

Unlike traditional fuel engine vehicles, e-LVs produce almost zero noise. The Tembo E-Drive motor can operate without making much sound, so Electric Cruiser and Electric HLX vehicles can be driven without adding to worksite noise pollution.

Less vehicle heat

Electric motors have an efficiency rating of over 90%. They also don’t generate a lot of heat. Meanwhile, combustion engines only have an efficiency of approximately 40%. They also tend to get very hot, especially when used for long periods.

Lower maintenance cost

Tembo e-LVs have significantly lower maintenance costs compared to petrol or diesel engine vehicles. The E-Drive motor’s regenerative braking system enables the use of the e-LV’s brakes for a much longer period than ordinary ones. Other maintenance costs such as replacement of air, oil, and fuel filters are also reduced or eliminated entirely.

Lower operational cost

Vehicle operating costs will be substantially reduced by investing in an electric light vehicle fleet. Using electricity is much more affordable compared to using diesel, resulting in significantly lower fuel costs.

Another area of savings is in ventilation for underground mines. Most mining companies spend between 20-40% of their total overhead cost to provide work site ventilation. This includes lowering the heat and getting rid of harmful gases inside mines. The electric motor in Tembo e-LVs doesn’t generate the same level of heat as combustion engines. Using them won’t increase the temperature in underground mines.

Shorter downtime

VivoPower and Tembo know the importance of a reliable vehicle fleet for mining and industrial companies. That’s why only high-quality automotive components are used in building Tembo e-LVs. This ensures that Tembo e-LVs can operate exceptionally well even in rough conditions.

Tembo electric light vehicles don’t require much maintenance, avoiding long periods of downtime.

No need for expensive and hazardous fuel infrastructure

Using petrol or diesel engine vehicles typically requires an infrastructure for fossil fuels at the worksite. However, building one is very expensive and potentially dangerous.

By comparison, having an e-LV fleet doesn’t require building any new facilities. The same electric infrastructure already used for light and ventilation can be utilised to charge the vehicles. They’re also a lot safer to use than combustion engine vehicles.

Employer branding

World and city governments are starting to pay closer attention to the environmental impacts of greenhouse gases.

Business leaders can also commit to CO2 emission reductions by switching to an e-LV fleet. Eliminating reliance on petrol or diesel engine vehicles is a major step towards meeting corporate emissions targets. Research shows that companies that commit to decarbonisation goals also become a lot more appealing to potential investors and employees as environmentally-conscious organisations.

Governmental preference

Regulatory bodies in the mining industry are starting to favour companies that commit to an all-electric underground environment. An all-electric fleet can improve the odds and speed of getting necessary approvals from these agencies. Investing in green vehicles and infrastructure can add considerable value to an organisation’s reputation.

Invest in a greener future

Tembo e-LVs are more environmentally-friendly than fossil fuel vehicles.

Switching to EVs isn’t just about improving existing vehicle fleets. It’s also about investing in a greener future for organisations.

The mining industry is already turning its back on fossil fuels because of their negative impact on the environment. Having an electric light vehicle fleet can help mining companies cut their emission levels.

Tembo e-LVs are therefore the perfect choice. Its E-Drive motor and battery system are designed to power the vehicles even through the roughest conditions. Whether it’s the Electric Land Cruiser or the Electric HLX, these e-LVs are built to last a long time.

Investing in Tembo electric light vehicles is one of the best decisions an organisation can make.

Check out our product video for the Tembo e-LV Electric Cruiser.

We are growing fast, which means we are hiring in all departments.

For your chance to work at Tembo, view our vacancies at https://www.temboelv.com/Careers-Jobs

We would like to thank everyone who attended the Transport Compleet exhibition in Gorinchem. It was great to see and hear all the enthusiasm about our products.

We are thrilled to announce our participation as an exhibitor at Minexpo Las Vegas from September 13 to 15, 2021. We will be accompanied by the Tembo e-LV B.V. team as well as VivoPower to present you the electric Cruiser, the new standard in mining mobility!

Five years ago, we presented the very first Tembo 4x4 e-LV Electric Cruiser. Time flies!

• Leading Mongolian automotive distributor Bodiz International Group LLC intends to purchase 350 electric light vehicle conversion kits from VivoPower subsidiary Tembo e-LV B.V. over the next five years.
• VivoPower estimates the value of the Distribution Agreement to be US$29m.
• The Distribution Agreement marks the Company’s fourth major distribution deal across four continents.

VivoPower is pleased to announce that the Company has signed a definitive agreement with Bodiz International Group for Bodiz to distribute electric light vehicles (e-LVs) in Mongolia using e-LV conversion kits from VivoPower’s wholly-owned subsidiary Tembo. Under the agreement, Bodiz intends to purchase 350 Tembo e-LV conversion kits through December 2026. The company estimates these orders to be worth up to US$29 million in potential revenue over the life of the Distribution Agreement. Bodiz will be responsible for acquiring original vehicles from Toyota, converting the vehicles to ruggedised e-LVs using the Tembo solutions, selling the units to end-customers, and providing ongoing servicing and maintenance. The Tembo kits transform diesel-powered Toyota Land Cruiser and Hilux vehicles into ruggedised e-LVs for use in mining and other hard-to-decarbonise sectors, including construction and defence. Alongside solar generation, battery storage, and on-site power distribution, Tembo e-LV products are a key component of VivoPower’s turnkey net zero solutions for corporate decarbonisation.

This Distribution Agreement marks VivoPower’s fourth major distribution deal in 2021 for Tembo e-LVs across four continents and continues to advance the company’s aim to build a global Tembo distribution network before the end of this year. The company previously completed distribution deals with GB Auto Group in Australia and Acces Industriel Mining Inc. in Canada and has also announced a non-binding Heads of Terms with Arctic Trucks Limited for distribution of Tembo e-LVs in Norway, Sweden, Iceland, and Finland. The latter deal is expected to be finalized in the coming weeks.

Based in Ulaanbaatar, Bodiz has been distributing ruggedised SUVs and other heavy-duty vehicles to the Mongolian market since its founding in 1997. In addition to Tembo vehicle distribution, the Distribution Agreement includes plans for Bodiz to send technicians to Tembo’s Netherlands headquarters to be trained in e-LV conversion, as well as a potential expansion of Bodiz’s facilities to service Tembo electric vehicles.

Kevin Chin, Executive Chairman and CEO of VivoPower, said: “We are pleased to continue expanding our global distribution network for Tembo e-LVs through this partnership with Bodiz. With the signing of this Distribution Agreement, Tembo e-LVs will be available to mining and other heavy industrial customers aiming to decarbonise their fleet operations through distribution partners on four continents. We look forward to building this relationship and working with Bodiz to support more customers on the drive to net zero.”

Dulguun Baatarsukh, CEO of Bodiz, said: “Bodiz is very glad to become a member of the Tembo e-LV family. Mongolia's economy, especially the mining sector, is growing rapidly with one of the world’s richest mineral resources. It is an honour to sign this Distribution Agreement with VivoPower for Bodiz to introduce Tembo e-LVs to our domestic market and take part in the global change of electrification. I hope we will continue to strengthen this partnership and cooperation in the long run and make a significant contribution to the mining sector in our region.”

VivoPower is pleased to announce that the company has entered a binding Letter of Intent with Toyota Motor Corporation Australia Limited to create a collaboration programme between VivoPower and Toyota Australia for the electrification of Toyota Land Cruiser vehicles using conversion kits designed and manufactured by VivoPower’s wholly-owned electric vehicle subsidiary, Tembo e-LV B.V.

The binding LOI sets out the terms for the purchase of preliminary goods and services and the basis upon which a Master Services Agreement (MSA) is expected to be finalised to govern an electric vehicle conversion partnership between VivoPower and Toyota Australia. Final terms of the MSA are under negotiation, but upon completion, it is intended that VivoPower would become Toyota Australia’s exclusive partner for Land Cruiser 70 electrification for a period of five years, with a further two-year option (seven years in total).

Kevin Chin, Executive Chairman and CEO of VivoPower, said: “We are extremely pleased to be collaborating with Toyota Motor Corporation Australia, part of the world’s largest original equipment manufacturer on the electrification of their Land Cruiser vehicles with our Tembo conversion kits. The Land Cruiser is the vehicle of choice worldwide for mining and other ruggedised industries. This partnership with Toyota Australia is a testament to the outstanding potential of Tembo’s technology to decarbonise transportation in some of the world’s toughest and hardest to decarbonise industries. More importantly, it is a tremendous opportunity for us to work directly with Toyota Australia to optimise the Tembo product and deliver it to more customers around the world, helping them to achieve their net zero carbon objectives in the process.”

While the MSA is still to be finalised, the LOI is a binding agreement between VivoPower and Toyota Australia to begin collaboration on Land Cruiser electrification efforts.

VivoPower and Toyota Australia intend to finalise the MSA as soon as practicable.

Leading Canadian industrial equipment distributor Acces Industriel Mining Inc. intends to purchase 1,675 electric vehicle conversion kits over five-plus years, marking VivoPower’s second major distribution agreement for Tembo e-LV products.

VivoPower has signed a definitive agreement with Canadian industrial equipment distributor Acces Industriel Mining Inc. for Acces to distribute electric light vehicles in Canada, using e-LV conversion kits from VivoPower’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Tembo e-LV B.V.

Under the agreement, Acces intends to purchase 1,675 Tembo e-LV conversion kits between now and December 2026. The company estimates these orders to be worth US$120m in total value over the next five-and-a-half years, with a delivery schedule weighted towards the latter part of the Distribution Agreement period. Acces will be responsible for acquiring original vehicles from Toyota, converting the vehicles to ruggedised e-LVs using the Tembo solutions, selling the units to end-customers and providing ongoing servicing and maintenance.

The Tembo kits transform diesel-powered Toyota Land Cruiser and Hilux vehicles into ruggedised e-LVs for use in mining and other hard-to-decarbonise sectors, including construction and defence. Alongside solar generation, battery storage, and on-site power distribution, Tembo e-LV products are a key component of VivoPower’s turnkey net zero solutions for corporate decarbonisation.

The Distribution Agreement follows January’s distribution agreement with GB Auto Group Pty Limited and GB Electric Vehicles Pty Ltd. The company has announced plans to complete a global Tembo distribution network by the end of this year, and discussions with other distributors are active and ongoing across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, the Americas, and Asia.

VivoPower selected Acces as the company’s distribution partner in Canada because of Acces’s established, long-term experience supplying, customising, and servicing Toyota Land Cruisers, as well as its extensive active relationships with dozens of mining companies which make Acces a leading provider of ruggedised vehicle solutions to Canada’s mining industry.

Kevin Chin, Executive Chairman and CEO of VivoPower, said: “We are very pleased to have finalised this Distribution Agreement with Acces, which will provide the springboard for VivoPower to deliver our Tembo e-LVs and complementary sustainable energy solutions to Canadian customers. As a leading and trusted provider of equipment and services to the Canadian mining industry, Acces’s selection of Tembo as their preferred electric vehicle solution is a testament to the quality of the Tembo product and the value it offers to mining and other industrial customers seeking net zero carbon solutions. Both VivoPower and Acces continue to see significant demand for corporate decarbonisation solutions, and we look forward to working together to help Canadian organisations achieve their net zero ambitions.”

Jean Dion, CEO of Acces, commented: “Acces is excited to complete this Distribution Agreement with VivoPower and to begin the work of delivering fully-electrified Tembo vehicles to our customers across the mining, forestry, industrial, and construction markets. We are confident that the Tembo product offers outstanding value to our customers who seek to reduce their carbon emissions, and Acces will not distribute any competing product over the life of the Distribution Agreement. As demand for net zero solutions continue to increase, we look forward to working with VivoPower and Tembo to provide the electric vehicle solutions our customers demand.”

Electric vehicles (EVs) can benefit your company in so many ways. As zero emission vehicles, EVs can help significantly reduce particulate levels in your workplace. They can certainly fast-track your organisation’s carbon emissions reduction targets.

Financially, EVs can also benefit your company’s bottomline. They can help save you a lot of money on petrol and diesel fill-ups. You also won’t have to worry about regular oil changes and maintenance. 

Here are seven advantages to using electric vehicles for your company: 

1. It’s economical to own an electric vehicle 

One of the biggest challenges for early EV adopters was the high price of converting to electric vehicles. At the time, there just weren’t enough sellers offering EVs to consumers and businesses. This kept prices from becoming more competitive. Today, many still think of EVs as being expensive luxury vehicles. 

But recent developments in EV technology have now made it more affordable to buy electric vehicles. Companies and individuals can now switch to a fleet of EVs without breaking the bank. 

The money that you invest in electric vehicles today will help you save more in the long run. For one, EVs are cheaper to drive than traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) cars. In Australia, refuelling an ICE vehicle can cost upwards of $100 each time, based on a typical cost of $1.50 for a litre of petrol. Recharging an EV, on the other hand, will only cost you a fraction of a dollar using power from the electricity grid. 

Want to take the cost-saving benefits up a notch? Try adding a renewable energy system to your workplace. It will let you charge your electric vehicles without worrying about a ballooning power bill. You can install solar panels or even a solar roof. Electricity generated by the renewable system can also power your wider business operations. 

2. EVs are cheaper to maintain than petrol vehicles 

Unlike petrol and diesel vehicles, battery-operated EVs don’t need oil to run. They also have fewer moving parts. That means you won’t have to spend a fortune on regular oil changes and maintenance. That can result in significant savings, especially if your company operates a large fleet of vehicles. 

3. Electric cars are easier to drive with far less noise 

Many people find it easier and more pleasant to drive an electric vehicle than a petrol or diesel model. This is because EVs don’t need gears. No gears means that EVs ride more smoothly and can accelerate more quickly than any traditional, geared vehicle.

The electric motors on EVs also don’t generate loud noise or heat like petrol or diesel engines do. That means quieter, cooler, and more pleasant job sites for your entire operation, especially in underground or other closed environments.  

4. You can enjoy various tax credits for owning EVs 

With the UN’s Race to Zero campaign underway, countries around the world are more sensitive about their carbon emission levels. To help meet their emissions targets, some governments have introduced tax credits to help convince people to switch to renewables. One such incentive is for owning and driving electric vehicles. 

In Australia, the federal government provides a lower Luxury Car Tax on fuel-efficient vehicles including EVs. For most other vehicles, the threshold is set at $69,152 for the 2021-22 financial year. But for electric vehicles and other fuel-efficient cars, the threshold is over 15% higher at $79,659. 

State governments also offer their own incentives for using fuel-efficient vehicles. In the Australian Capital Territory, for example, people who buy brand new EVs pay $0 stamp duty for their initial purchase. New or used electric car owners also get to register their vehicles for free for two years. 

Meanwhile, in Queensland, electric and hybrid vehicle owners pay lower stamp duty compared to other car owners. 

In the UK, people who drive fuel-efficient cars are given a cleaner vehicle discount for the London Congestion Charge. The incentive is offered to those whose vehicles meet Euro 6 standards and do not emit more than 75g/km of CO2. Their cars must also have a minimum 20 miles zero emission capable range. Plans are also in the works to change policy to make it exclusively for owners of battery-operated EVs. 

5. Driving an electric vehicle is better for the environment 

This one is simple. EVs don’t produce carbon emissions. This makes them a green choice compared to petrol or diesel engine vehicles.  

This goes beyond just the fuel your EV isn’t burning. Since electric vehicles don’t rely on fossil fuels, they also help cut well-to-wheel emissions or upstream emissions. These refer to the air pollution produced during the process of extracting oil and refining it into fuel. Well-to-wheel emissions also factor in the pollution from the transport of fuel products to gas stations. 

6. Switching to EVs fast-tracks your company’s emissions targets 

World governments aren’t the only ones taking part in the UN’s Race to Zero campaign. Private companies are also doing their part in helping reduce carbon emissions in their workplaces. 

If you’ve set your emissions targets, using electric vehicles can help you meet these goals a lot quicker. Having a fleet of EVs instead of petrol or diesel engine cars can significantly cut emissions from your day-to-day operations. You and your workers can make the daily commute without worrying about adding to the air pollution. 

You can also fast-track your targets even further by using renewable sources of energy to power your EVs. Having a network of wind- or solar-based energy capture systems will reduce your reliance on the electricity grid. 

7. Having a fleet of electric vehicles is great for your brand 

Let’s face it: electric vehicles are just cool to look at and fun to drive. This isn’t just about the aesthetics of the vehicles. If you see a person drive up with an EV, you know that they take the issue of carbon emissions seriously. They’re doing their part in helping reduce carbon emissions and air pollution by switching to zero emission vehicles. 

Imagine what that kind of commitment can do for your organisation. That positive reputation from being an environmentally-friendly brand multiplies, depending on the number of green technologies you’re using. You might even think of having your company become a B Corporation, a new kind of business that balances the triple bottom line of people, profit, and planet.   

Make the switch 

Using electric vehicles is just one of the many ways you can make your company greener. You can also do a lot of other things to create a positive impact on the environment.  

By committing to renewables, you’re committing your organisation to the ideals of net zero. Not only are you making the current world more liveable, but you’re also helping create a better future for the next generation. At the same time, you’re providing a better, safer work environment for your employees right now, while saving thousands on fuel and maintenance costs. 

If your business currently relies on a fleet of light vehicles, contact VivoPower today. Our Tembo line of Electric Cruisers and Electric HLXs are perfect for mining and other rugged industrial applications. They are 100% battery-operated EVs with the same power as diesel engines but without the harmful carbon emissions.  

We also have a full suite of sustainable energy solutions (SES) to help you achieve your emissions targets. 

Jos van der Linden has joined our team as Managing Director (Netherlands) for our electric light vehicle division, Tembo e-LV B.V.

Jos is a seasoned executive who has spent his career at the forefront of vehicle electrification and renewable energy. For more than a decade, he worked for Spijkstaal Elektro, an innovative international company that was the first in the market to convert internal combustion engine cars into fully electric and serial electric hybrid vehicles. He has also been a leader in the development of many customer-specific, electrically driven solutions in various markets, with experience in battery technology, solar, and wind energy applications.

In addition to his years of experience delivering sustainable energy solutions, Jos has held several management positions within both family businesses and publicly traded companies. He has a background in business economics, supplemented with studies in the fields of Sustainable Materials Management and Electric Vehicles and Mobility.

Jos possesses extensive direct experience in the development of electric vehicles, battery technology, and related electric power solutions. We are delighted to welcome him to VivoPower and look forward to his leadership as we hyperscale the Tembo business.

VivoPower also recently welcomed James Howell-Richardson as General Counsel. Based in London, James spent the last decade working as part of the senior leadership team for NYSE-listed Bristow Group Inc., the world’s leading global helicopter operator. In that role, he oversaw the legal function and several technical areas including joint ventures, mergers and acquisitions, corporate governance, public procurement, and commercial contract negotiations with blue-chip clients.

James has led and been an integral part of numerous complex corporate and organisational restructures and transformations. He has also held several international directorships across the globe. His depth of strategic, management, and legal knowledge gives him an all-around ability to help support and deliver the objectives of VivoPower. He will be a vital member of our leadership group.

VivoPower and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Tembo e-LV B.V., have entered a non-binding Heads of Terms with leading ruggedised vehicle converter Arctic Trucks for Arctic Trucks to convert and distribute Tembo electric light vehicles in Norway, Sweden, Iceland, and Finland.

Under the proposed agreement, Arctic Trucks would commit to purchase 800 Tembo e-LV conversion kits through December 2026. Based upon the company’s estimates, these orders could be worth an estimated US$58m in total value over the life of the proposed agreement. The proposed agreement must be finalised prior to June 30, 2021, unless the parties agree to an extension, and all purchase commitments would be subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the final agreement.

The Tembo kits transform diesel-powered Toyota Land Cruiser and Hilux vehicles into ruggedised e-LVs for use in mining and other hard-to-decarbonise sectors, including construction and defence. Alongside solar generation, battery storage, and on-site power distribution, Tembo e-LV products are a key component of VivoPower’s turnkey net zero solutions for corporate decarbonisation.

This proposed agreement would mark VivoPower’s third major distribution deal in 2021 for Tembo e-LVs across three continents and would continue to advance the company’s aim to build a global Tembo distribution network before the end of this year. The company previously completed a distribution deal with GB Auto Group in Australia in January, and announced a non-binding Heads of Terms with Acces Industriel Mining Inc. for distribution of Tembo e-LVs in Canada last week. The latter deal is expected to be formalised before the end of June.

Arctic Trucks specialises in the re-engineering and conversion of four-wheel drive vehicles for extreme conditions, particularly in the harsh polar regions. Arctic Trucks vehicles have enabled ventures to the North Pole and erupting Icelandic volcano Eyjafjallajökull on television’s Top Gear and set the Guinness World Record for the fastest overland journey to the South Pole. Those credentials made Arctic Trucks a natural choice for a partnership to convert and distribute Tembo e-LVs designed for mining and other ruggedised applications.

Kevin Chin, Executive Chairman and CEO of VivoPower, said: “We are extremely pleased to be partnering with Arctic Trucks to expand the distribution reach of our Tembo vehicles. Tembo e-LVs are engineered and built to enable decarbonisation through fleet electrification in some of the world’s harshest and most carbon-heavy industries. Arctic Trucks are no strangers to the challenges of engineering vehicles for ruggedised environments, and we look forward to working with them to help mining and other customers in the Nordic regions achieve net zero carbon goals previously thought impossible.”

Under the proposed agreement, it is intended that Arctic Trucks would commit to purchase the 800 kits from VivoPower as scheduled over the duration of the agreement, acquire an equal number of Land Cruisers or Hiluxes from Toyota, convert the vehicles to ruggedised e-LVs using the Tembo solutions, sell the units on, and be retained by customers for servicing and maintenance.

VivoPower and Arctic Trucks intend to finalise the proposed agreement as soon as practicable.

To read our full press release, and to keep up with all of VivoPower’s releases, visit our Press Releases page.

We’re excited to announce that we have once again passed our ISO9001 certification. This validation of our high standards proves how we take the quality of our work to the next level and how we’re committed to achieving these standards of excellence year after year. A certification audit covers all processes in the company, from providing information via quotation, to the satisfactory delivery of a vehicle. Our customers are our priority.

The annual audit demonstrates the setup of a process and the operation of that process. This includes holding workshops and providing quality design & development, sales, management, quality assessment, customer service, and workforce leadership.

The past year has been a story of transformation for our team, with our processes changing significantly. Yet we remain committed to improving our systems to the best of our ability. We are proud of this certification, and excited to prove to our customers, suppliers, and community that the Tembo brand is a brand they can trust.