Highland Electric Fleets, a provider of electrification-as-a-service (EaaS) for school districts, governments, and fleet operators in North America, has been named by Time as one of the most influential companies globally. The company was recognized in the category of Pioneers.
To assemble the list, Time solicited nominations across sectors and polled its global network of contributors and correspondents, as well as outside experts. Time editors evaluated each on key factors, including impact, innovation, ambition, and success. The result is a diverse group of 100 businesses.
Highland Electric Fleets facilitates the transition to zero-emissions transportation by offering a range of services for school districts, governments, and fleet operators in the United States and Canada to switch to electric vehicles. The company has deployed more than 600 electric school buses to date.
Highland aims to ensure communities can benefit economically, health-wise, and safety-wise from electric fleets. Electric school buses can be more cost-effective than diesel buses due to lower fuel and maintenance expenses, as electric engines have fewer moving parts. Health benefits include zero tailpipe emissions, which improve air quality and reduce respiratory issues among children. Additionally, electric buses help reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional diesel buses.
Highland has also developed vehicle-to-grid (V2G) programs that help stabilize the grid. During high electricity demand periods, the grid can draw energy from the buses' batteries. During low demand periods, buses can be charged, storing excess energy for later use.
"I started Highland because I saw my 5-year-old son standing next to a school bus and realized his head was the same height as the diesel tailpipe," said Duncan McIntyre, CEO and founder of Highland Electric Fleets. "To be recognized by Time as one of the most influential companies highlights our efforts to make access to electric vehicles more affordable and accessible for communities."
