Fort Bliss Army Rodeo Electric ZAP

The US Army-hosted Renewable Energy Rodeo and Symposium which took place the last two days at Fort Bliss, Texas, witnessed an entire array of electric trucks, vans and ATVs being put through their paces by California based company ZAP.

At the request of the US Army Research, Development and Engineering Command's Tank and Automotive Center, Fort Bliss has become, for two days, the center stage for the ZAPTRUCK XL, ZAPVAN SHUTTLE and ZAP DUDE ATV to show their might.

The ZAPTRUCK XL with convertible bed has been created as a tool to transport up to 1900 lbs. of cargo, the SHUTTLE to transport four passengers and the ATV for security patrol and maintenance functions.

The display of buzzing vehicles comes as a means for ZAP to further advertise their electric-manufacturing-skills for the Army. ZAP has already deployed electric trucks at the Army’s Daegu, Korea installation last year and now plans to expand its offering.

“We are eager to receive first-hand feedback from all levels of military personnel who will have the opportunity to experience our electric vehicles,” said ZAP CEO Steve Schneider.

“We believe that communication and partnerships between energy innovators and the military will lead to practical solutions that reduce adverse effects on the environment, such as vehicles that are more energy efficient and simpler to maintain.”

It's unclear yet if either of the vehicles displayed at Fort Bliss managed to impress, despite the crowd of government legislators, GSA and various fleet managers, Pentagon-level officials present on site.