Proterra adds US-sourced cell option to Onyx heavy-duty battery platform

Proterra has revealed that its Onyx modular battery platform will soon offer a US-sourced cell option, with deliveries expected to commence in the first quarter of 2027. This initiative is designed to meet the increasingly stringent Buy America and Build America, Buy America (BABA) procurement regulations, as well as to satisfy original equipment manufacturers’ (OEMs) growing demand for domestically produced battery components amid a complex geopolitical landscape. Orders for the new US-sourced battery packs are already open, signalling Proterra’s commitment to enhancing supply chain resilience and compliance. The introduction of the US cell option is part of a broader strategy to significantly increase American content within the Onyx platform. Proterra has indicated that this onshoring effort, which also involves changes to sourcing for pack components and internal subsystems, will boost domestic content by more than 600%, although the company did not specify the baseline figure for this calculation. The Onyx battery packs are manufactured at Proterra’s facility in Greer, South Carolina, while its technology centre is based in Burlingame, California, underscoring the company’s investment in US-based production and development capabilities. Chris Bailey, CEO of Proterra, emphasised the company’s response to market demands for greater supply chain certainty and stronger domestic content. He highlighted the importance of addressing these requirements to support customers navigating the evolving regulatory and geopolitical environment. While Proterra has not disclosed the identity of the US cell manufacturer involved in this new supply chain arrangement, the move aligns with broader industry trends prioritising localisation and sustainability in battery production for heavy-duty commercial vehicles and equipment. Looking ahead, this development could have significant implications for the electric commercial vehicle sector, particularly as OEMs seek to secure reliable, compliant battery solutions amid tightening regulations. Proterra’s enhanced domestic sourcing may provide a competitive advantage by reducing exposure to international supply chain disruptions and aligning with government incentives. As the market evolves, further announcements regarding partnerships and technological advancements in the Onyx platform are anticipated, reflecting the dynamic nature of the electric mobility landscape.