Zero-emission vehicle manufacturer Workhorse Group launched its new certified dealer program on March 21, an initiative to develop an official network of verified dealers that have passed the protocols necessary to safely repair and maintain the electric components of Workhorse EVs.
Its first certified dealer is Kingsburg Truck Center, a work truck dealer headquartered in Kingsburg, California, the company said in the same announcement.
As part of the certified dealer program, Workhorse has established a comprehensive training program that provides dealers with both hands-on and online training, including technical sales training.
The program will enable dealers to safely assist customers with vehicle maintenance in addition to providing strategies for vehicle deployment into their fleets, according to Workhorse. To ensure high-quality vehicle maintenance, Workhorse certified dealers have also made investments in EV charging infrastructure, tooling, and building out spare parts inventory.
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Kingsburg not only sells trucks but also specializes in installing various applications for specific industry needs, tailoring their business model uniquely suited to sell Workhorse’s products, according to the release.
“The launch of our certified dealer program is one of the vital early steps in activating our go-to-market efforts and creating a strong foundation for both our dealers and end customers,” Workhorse CEO Rick Dauch said. “We are committed to providing our customers with safe, reliable vehicles and the highest standard of service, and this new program will be an integral component to building a reliable network for sales and maintenance. The partnership with Kingsburg Truck Center expands our dealer footprint westward into California, the bellwether state for the EV market. We look forward to growing our relationship with Kingsburg and other dealers domestically as we scale production and commercialize our trucks this year.”
Kingsburg Truck Center President Jerry Smith added: “Our company is aligned with Workhorse’s mission and vision, which is why we decided to partner with them as a certified dealer. We’ve already made the strategic investments necessary and are ready to hit the ground running. Kingsburg will also be taking delivery of the first 10 W4 CC units available to begin our partnership and address the wide range of applications in the San Joaquin Valley.”
Workhorse made other news this month. On March 8 at NTEA’s Work Truck Week 2023 in Indianapolis, the EV maker unveiled its Classes 5-6 W56 electric vehicle, which has a range of up to 150 miles and a 1,000-cubic-foot cargo box.
The W56 will be available in several work-truck configurations tailored to meet various business applications, said a company release ahead of the Work Truck Week unveiling. The zero-emission delivery van has a payload capacity of up to around 10,000 lb. with lowered step-in and wide cabin door for easier entry and exit. Built with the delivery driver in mind, the cabin has been ergonomically designed to providing safety and comfort during long shifts.
