SALT LAKE CITY, UT – Nikola Motor Company is scheduled to unveil an electric Class 8 truck tonight, naming Ryder System as its exclusive distribution and maintenance provider, and announcing plans for a network of hydrogen fueling stations across Canada and the U.S.

The new truck will reportedly feature high-density lithium batteries and be powered on the go by a hydrogen fuel cell, with a maximum range of 1,900 kilometers. The company also promises 1,000 horsepower and 2,000 lb-ft of torque.

“Never has a production-model Class 8 truck achieved best-in-class fuel efficiency while also dramatically improving performance over its diesel competition – all with zero-emissions,” the company says in a release this morning, noting that the US $1,500 deposits collected so far represent almost US $3 billion in future orders.

A related leasing program will include unlimited hydrogen fuel, warranty, and scheduled maintenance for 72 months, it adds.

The location of a manufacturing facility is to be decided in the first half of 2017.

During tonight’s launch, Nikola founder and Chief Executive Officer Trevor Milton is also expected to unveil the plan for a network of hydrogen fueling stations across the U.S. and Canada, with plans to begin construction of those beginning in January 2018.

“We commend Nikola for its leadership in zero emission vehicles, and for its decision to partner with Ryder as their exclusive nationwide distribution and maintenance provider. This relationship is key to expanding our advanced vehicle technology portfolio of innovative solutions,” said Dennis Cooke, Ryder’s president of global fleet management solutions. “Ryder continually monitors emerging fleet technologies and seeks to establish relationships with companies that are leading innovation within the commercial transportation industry.”

In addition to Ryder System’s national coverage, Thompson Machinery — a Caterpillar dealer and an early investor in Nikola Motor Company — will offer sales and service in Tennessee and Mississippi.

The unveiling will be live streamed from Nikola’s website, beginning at 6:45 pm Mountain Time. 

Today’s Trucking’s Jim Park will be reporting from Salt Lake City, Utah.