(November 14, 2022) SAN RAFAEL, Calif. — Kindred Motorworks, the Bay Area producer of modernized vintage vehicles, has announced that it has partnered with Idaho-based KORE Power, a leading developer of battery cell technology, to supply battery modules for the electrified models in the Kindred lineup. The first two vehicles that will benefit from this partnership are the Kindred VW Bus and the Kindred 3100 pickup truck, both of which are offered exclusively as EVs.

“Our team performed extensive testing with different battery systems and KORE Power’s form factor, performance, and proven safety set them apart from the rest,” said Rob Howard, Kindred Motorworks’ founder and CEO. “This agreement locks in our battery supply for the next several years of vehicle production and we hope to further expand this relationship as we grow,” he added.

Kindred Motorworks selected KORE Power’s VDA 355 format battery modules. These compact, standardized modules — already in wide use by various OEMS — feature integrated sensors for voltage and temperature monitoring. Selecting the VDA modules gives Kindred Motorworks the flexibility to build custom battery enclosures that complement the architecture and design of different classic cars and trucks.

“Ultimately, KORE Power’s modules allow us to maximize driving range for our customers without having to make any design compromises,” said Rob Howard.

The modular design also means that Kindred Motorworks will be able to change and upgrade battery chemistries based on future improvements without having to alter the design of its vehicles’ battery enclosures and other related systems.

“We’ll deliver a reliable, on-time supply of top-tier batteries for Kindred Motorworks’ vehicles,” said KORE Power CEO and co-founder, Lindsay Gorrill. “Using KORE Power cells to electrify Kindred’s vintage vehicles merges modern technology and classic style with an undeniable swagger.”

KORE Power is constructing its first US-based manufacturing facility outside Phoenix. The KOREPlex will more than double Kore Power’s existing cell-production capacity, with deliveries of US-manufactured battery modules beginning in 2024.

Kindred Motorworks’ first EV model, the Kindred VW Bus, is available for pre-order now at KindredMotorworks.com. Its second EV, the Kindred 3100 pickup, will be available for pre-order later this month.