Zero expands U.S. manufacturing

From Zero Motorcycles

SANTA CRUZ, CA – Zero Motorcycles, the global leader in the electric motorcycle industry, has announced plans to open a new manufacturing facility that will more than double the company’s current production capacity.

Being built alongside Zero Motorcycles’ corporate headquarters in Santa Cruz County, it will keep manufacturing and R&D working shoulder to shoulder. Following on the heels of Zero’s recently announced $1.84 million ‘next generation’ powertrain project, the new factory is another sign of the company’s continued growth and momentum.

"With this exciting new expansion, we reconfirm our commitment to building the best electric motorcycles in the world as well as creating U.S. based manufacturing jobs," said Steve Salyer, Vice President of Operations for Zero Motorcycles. "Quality Control at the highest levels means personally inspecting each bike as it comes off the assembly line. Moreover, in the spirit of continual improvement and innovation, we believe that having our manufacturing and engineering teams collaborating within the same space gives us both an operational and developmental competitive advantage."

The new facility will bring Zero’s total production space to 34,000 square feet and is supported by a redevelopment grant from the city of Scotts Valley. Rewarded for its innovative technology, Zero will utilize the space to meet an increase in consumer demand and to continue to develop its advanced powertrain technology.

"Since the inception of Zero Motorcycles, Santa Cruz County has been our home. With many companies looking outside of the U.S. to develop and build their products, we are proud to say we are continuing our support of our local community," said Gene Banman, CEO of Zero Motorcycles. "At the same time, we are responding quickly to an increasing global demand for our motorcycles. This investment positions us ideally for further growth, innovation and development as we move into 2012 and beyond."

Renovations begin in early 2011 with the first production motorcycle expected to roll out by late February, 2011. The company plans to add 25 employees by mid-2011.