Navistar’s NEXT eMobility Solutions business unit is partnering with a Los Angeles-based energy solutions company to provide charging infrastructure and consulting services to its electric vehicle customers.

NEXT eMobility Solutions signed a master services agreement with In-Charge Energy on Wednesday, according to a news release from Navistar, the parent company of IC Bus.

Since its launch in October, NEXT has focused its eMobility development on a comprehensive “four Cs” approach: Consulting, Construction, Charging and Connecting. This partnership aims to strengthen Navistar’s ability to provide customers with superior support in each of these categories.

“With electric vehicles, it’s important to understand that we can provide the very best bus or truck for our customers, but if they don’t have a partner to show them how to operate it, charge it, or take care of it in the long run, it likely won’t be a successful deployment,” said Jason Gies, director of business development for Navistar. “This partnership ensures that IC Bus and International Truck customers have the infrastructure support they need to ultimately be successful in electric.”

Electrifying a fleet requires much more than just purchasing an electric vehicle. Customers need to consider the impacts on maintenance and facilities such as increased electricity demand, utility upgrades and other factors, Navistar noted in the news release.

“The total cost of ownership with electric vehicles promises to be less than conventional vehicles; however, that is only possible with well-designed charging infrastructure and a trusted partner,” said Cameron Funk, CEO of In-Charge. “Navistar has the right vision and In-Charge is pleased to provide their end-to-end charging solution.”

“I’m very happy to announce this new relationship with In-Charge,” said Bob Walsh, the vice president of emerging technology, strategy and planning for Navistar. “Together, we can truly provide our customers with a partner for the entire electrification process – from initial interest to having a full fleet of electric vehicles and beyond.”