When EVs Struggle

The Bollinger Motors saga is the latest example of difficulties with tech-industrial startups

Tech-industrial startups lean heavily on the notion of "innovation", which, as we've covered in print, is a precariously nebulous term.

Bollinger Motors of Oak Park, Michigan is going through the EV startup struggle. The Detroit Free Press is credited with speaking to Bollinger first and confirming the shutdown. SEC filings are available to view also, but Bollinger hasn't confirmed anything outside of the DFP report, which they've only "confirmed" by not disputing since its release.

Other news outlets have reported up to 900 layoffs from the situation, an unconfirmed figure.

Bollinger set out to build rugged, all‑electric commercial trucks—specifically the B4 Class 4 and the upcoming B5 Class 5 models. The company emphasized American engineering and durability, with production centered in Michigan.

Multiple reports show the company has been in serious financial distress:

• Court‑ordered receivership: A judge placed Bollinger Motors into receivership after the company spent around $148 million trying to bring its trucks to market.

• Founder lawsuit: Robert Bollinger sued the company, claiming it owes him $10.5 million and is insolvent.

• Production halted: Manufacturing of the B4 truck stopped due to lack of funds and supplier issues.

• Operational shutdown: One report notes the company closed down operations entirely, though not via bankruptcy—yet.

• Restructuring attempts: Under Mullen Automotive, the company (now “Bollinger Innovations”) has tried to reorganize and relocate manufacturing to Mississippi.