Bollinger Motors, an electric vehicle startup, is on the brink of collapse after a Michigan judge granted a request to put the company into receivership. The decision follows a lawsuit filed by the company’s founder, Robert Bollinger, against Mullen Automotive, the current owner of Bollinger Motors, over an unpaid $10 million loan.
Company Background
Bollinger Motors was founded in upstate New York and later moved to Detroit. Initially, the company planned to manufacture consumer-centric off-road electric vehicles, including the B1 SUV and B2 pickup truck. However, it shifted focus to commercial vehicles and introduced the Deliver-E electric delivery van.
Financial Troubles
The company has produced only 40 units of the B4 electric commercial chassis cab truck since starting production last year. Despite plans to debut a long-wheelbase version, the B5, in 2026, the project’s future is now uncertain. Bollinger Motors has faced significant financial challenges, including defaulting on about $500,000 in credit card debt, which was personally guaranteed by Robert Bollinger.
Current Status
The receivership ruling has frozen Bollinger Motors’ assets, paving the way for a liquidation plan. Despite this, CEO Bryan Chambers remains optimistic about the company’s future. Robert Bollinger, who left the company nearly a year ago, has expressed his willingness to support the company’s 100 employees financially in the short term.
Future Prospects
While the current situation looks grim, both Bollinger and Chambers are focused on moving forward. The company’s ability to continue operations remains uncertain, with the best possible outcome being continued operation under the current structure.
