Terex has announced its Series B investment in Viatec, a South Carolina-based manufacturer of electronic power take-off (PTO) systems that support electrification of utility fleets. Terex is the lead investor in Series B. Other participants include Duke Energy, who has been an early adopter of Viatec solutions and, like Terex, views the further development of Viatec technology as important to reducing the carbon footprint of utility fleets.

“One of the biggest challenges for electric utilities in the coming years is electrification of their heavy-duty fleets, including both bucket trucks and digger derricks,” said Joe Caywood, director of marketing for Terex Utilities.

Terex Utilities has actively worked with Viatec since 2019, focusing on simple and reliable plug-in electric PTO solutions that help minimize engine idling, reducing carbon emissions and enabling quieter equipment operation. Terex and Viatec launched the latest SmartPTO product family at The Utility Expo in September 2021, and Terex now offers SmartPTO on a variety of its Hi-Ranger telescopic, overcenter, and non-overcenter aerial devices as well as Commander and General digger derricks. SmartPTO eliminates noise and carbon emissions while also lowering operating costs and extending the life of utility equipment by reducing engine operating hours.

Duke Energy was an early customer of Viatec’s and continues to support development of the business by making this investment alongside Terex.