Mullen's Bollinger Motors Expands Presence in California's Central Valley with New Dealer Partnership

Mullen Automotive (NASDAQ: MULN), an emerging electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, has announced a strategic expansion of its subsidiary Bollinger Motors' retail network into California's Central Valley. The company has partnered with Affinity Truck Center, a well-established family-owned business with a 40-year history in the region, marking a significant step in Bollinger's market penetration strategy for its electric commercial vehicles.

This partnership is poised to have substantial implications for the commercial EV market in one of California's most economically vital regions. The Central Valley, known for its agricultural prowess and growing industrial base, represents a key market for commercial electric vehicles. By establishing a presence through Affinity Truck Center, which operates sales locations in Bakersfield and Fresno, as well as service centers in Paso Robles and Salinas, Bollinger Motors is positioning itself to capitalize on the increasing demand for sustainable transportation solutions in this economically diverse area.

Jim Connelly, Chief Revenue Officer of Bollinger, emphasized the strategic importance of this move, stating that it gives the company "a strong foothold in California's Central Valley." This expansion is particularly noteworthy given California's aggressive push towards vehicle electrification and stringent emissions regulations, which are driving businesses to seek out electric alternatives for their commercial fleets.

The partnership with Affinity Truck Center is more than just a sales channel; it represents a comprehensive approach to market entry. Affinity's extensive experience in providing diverse transportation options, combined with its established presence in the region, offers Bollinger a robust platform for both sales and customer support. This local expertise will be crucial in addressing the specific needs of Central Valley businesses and easing their transition to electric commercial vehicles.

For Mullen Automotive, this development comes at a critical time in its growth trajectory. The company has recently begun commercial vehicle production at its Tunica, Mississippi plant and has received IRS approval for federal EV tax credits on its commercial vehicles. With both the Mullen ONE, a Class 1 EV cargo van, and Mullen THREE, a Class 3 EV cab chassis truck, now certified by the California Air Resource Board (CARB) and EPA, the company is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for electric commercial vehicles.

The expansion into the Central Valley through Bollinger Motors aligns with Mullen's broader strategy of establishing a strong presence in key markets across the United States. As businesses increasingly look to electrify their fleets in response to environmental concerns and regulatory pressures, Mullen's strategic partnerships and expanding product line could play a significant role in shaping the future of commercial transportation in California and beyond.

This move by Mullen and Bollinger Motors reflects the broader trends in the automotive industry towards electrification and sustainable transportation solutions. As more regions adopt stringent emissions standards and businesses seek to reduce their carbon footprint, partnerships like this one between manufacturers and established dealerships will be crucial in facilitating the widespread adoption of electric commercial vehicles.