Lunaz Applied Technology, a firm known for upcycling commercial vehicles to electric, has entered administration due to delays in zero-emission legislation.
- The company, backed by celebrities such as David Beckham and Jack Whitehall, had constructed agreements with Biffa and Buckinghamshire council for fleet conversions.
- Administration follows a recent change in the company’s name to App Tech Productions, just days before filing.
- Lunaz assures that its luxury car division remains unaffected, continuing operations with robust order books.
- The restructure is aimed at realigning focus towards passenger vehicles, with commercial production postponed in anticipation of changed legislation demands.
Lunaz Applied Technology, renowned for its innovative conversion of bin lorries into battery-electric vehicles, has encountered significant obstacles, leading to its entry into administration. The firm, which has the endorsement of high-profile figures such as David Beckham and comedian Jack Whitehall, attributed the situation to both confirmed and anticipated delays in the legislative requirements for zero-emission fleet vehicles. This development marks a substantial shift from its previous trajectory, where it had successfully secured deals with notable entities like Biffa and the Buckinghamshire council.
Interestingly, the company’s decision to enter administration closely followed a strategic rebrand, where it altered its name to App Tech Productions mere days before initiating the administrative process. While this transition signals a period of uncertainty for its commercial vehicle segment, Lunaz has emphasised that its high-end passenger car business remains unaffected. The production of these vehicles continues unabated, with the company reporting open order books for its extensively engineered electric vehicle platforms.
According to a spokesperson for Lunaz, the ongoing business restructuring is primarily to re-scope production timelines for its commercial vehicle offerings. The decision to halt operations at Lunaz Applied Technologies is part of a broader strategy to refocus efforts on passenger cars, which are still in production. This move is expected to ensure that the company can meet the demand for its passenger vehicles while preparing for potential future production of commercial platforms once market conditions become favourable.
This strategic restructuring is also intended to respond effectively to the reschedule of legislative requirements regarding the transition to zero-emission vehicles. Lunaz had previously been allocated £614,470 from the Getting Building Fund, which was utilised for research and development aimed at advancing remanufactured and electrified commercial vehicles. Additionally, the firm had pledged its collaboration with Biffa, aiming to facilitate Biffa’s transition away from diesel refuse trucks with an initial order potentially reducing embedded carbon by a substantial 210 tonnes.
The future of Lunaz’s commercial vehicle operations remains intricately tied to broader industry shifts and legislative changes, which will dictate when and how production might resume. Despite the current halt, the company’s commitment to pioneering sustainable automotive solutions remains steadfast. As market dynamics evolve, Lunaz anticipates recommencing its commercial vehicle production, aligning with industry demand for cleaner, alternative fuel options.
Lunaz Applied Technology’s administrative pause reflects a strategic pivot, ensuring readiness for future legislative and market developments.
