The University of Virginia (UVA) has made its second electric vehicle (EV) purchase, further solidifying its commitment to sustainability and reducing carbon emissions. This recent purchase of Mullen Automotive’s Class 1 EV cargo van, the Mullen ONE, was fulfilled by Randy Marion Automotive Group in North Carolina. This follows UVA’s initial commercial vehicle order from 2023 and comes on the heels of a significant 180-vehicle order from dealer partner Eco Auto. The growing demand for Mullen’s electric commercial vehicles highlights the increasing market for sustainable transportation options.
UVA’s decision to invest in electric vehicles aligns with its sustainability goals, including achieving carbon neutrality by 2030 and reducing nitrogen losses by 30% by 2030. The university has already made strides in electrifying its fleet, with 13% of Facilities Management vehicles being battery-powered and supported by 24 charging stations. The increase in electric vehicle usage within Facilities Management, accounting for approximately 9% of total annual miles driven, demonstrates UVA’s dedication to reducing its environmental impact.
By incorporating the Mullen ONE EV cargo van into its campus operations, UVA can further enhance its sustainability initiatives while improving efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The compact design and zero-emission operation of the Mullen ONE make it an ideal fit for the demands of campus life. This partnership with Mullen represents a significant step forward for UVA in its journey towards a more sustainable future.
David Michery, CEO and chairman at Mullen Automotive, expressed pride in partnering with UVA to support their sustainability mission. He highlighted the increasing demand for electric vehicles in higher education sectors as universities lead the transition to clean energy. Michery is confident that Mullen’s vehicles will play a significant role in UVA’s sustainability efforts.
Mullen’s commercial EV lineup includes the Mullen ONE and the Mullen THREE, a Class 3 EV cab chassis truck designed for urban last-mile delivery. Both vehicles are fully compliant with U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the California Air Resources Board certifications, ensuring adherence to clean air emissions standards.
The Mullen THREE recently qualified for incentives through programs like the State of Massachusetts MOR-EV and the California Hybrid and Zero-Emission Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Program (HVIP). These incentives make the Mullen THREE an attractive option for businesses looking to transition to electric vehicles and reduce their carbon footprint.
In conclusion, UVA’s second EV purchase from Mullen Automotive signifies a significant step towards achieving its sustainability goals. By investing in electric vehicles like the Mullen ONE, UVA is not only reducing its environmental impact but also setting an example for other institutions to follow. The partnership between UVA and Mullen showcases the growing demand for electric commercial vehicles and the shift towards a more sustainable transportation future.