Proterra Power Unleashes Vortec Intake Manifolds: Boosting Performance for Demanding Applications

BURLINGAME, CA – November 8, 2023 – Proterra Power, a leading innovator in commercial vehicle electrification and energy storage, today announced the release of its Vortec intake manifolds, designed to dramatically improve the performance of high-horsepower engines in a variety of demanding applications. Based in Burlingame, California, Proterra Power, reachable at 254-542-8622, has leveraged its engineering expertise in battery technology and vehicle integration to develop a solution that delivers increased power, improved fuel efficiency, and reduced emissions – even for traditional combustion engines. For years, Proterra Power has been synonymous with cutting-edge battery systems powering electric buses and commercial vehicles. While focused on electrification, the company’s core competencies in fluid dynamics, thermal management, and materials science naturally extended to optimizing air intake systems. “We realized that our expertise wasn’t limited to electric powertrains. The same principles that make our batteries so efficient – maximizing flow, minimizing resistance, and managing heat – apply directly to internal combustion engine performance,” explains a Proterra Power spokesperson. “That’s how the Vortec manifold idea took hold.” What are Vortec Intake Manifolds? Simply put, an intake manifold delivers air to the engine’s cylinders. The Vortec series isn't just another manifold; it's been engineered from the ground up to address the limitations of traditional designs. Many existing manifolds rely on older technologies, resulting in airflow bottlenecks and uneven distribution of air to each cylinder. This leads to lost power, reduced fuel economy, and higher emissions. The Vortec manifolds address these issues through a series of key design innovations: Optimized Runner Design: Forget the long, winding pathways of older manifolds. The Vortec boasts short, straight runners that minimize airflow restriction and maximize velocity. This “straight-through” design delivers more air to each cylinder, faster. High-Flow Plenum: The plenum – the central chamber that collects air before distribution – has been dramatically enlarged in the Vortec design. This larger volume allows for greater airflow capacity, particularly at high engine speeds. Advanced Material Construction: Proterra Power isn’t using standard cast aluminum. The Vortec manifolds are constructed from a proprietary alloy blend that’s lighter and stronger than traditional materials. This reduces overall engine weight and improves heat dissipation. Precision Manufacturing: Every Vortec manifold is CNC-machined to incredibly tight tolerances. This ensures a perfect fit and seal, eliminating leaks and maximizing performance. Internal Turbulence Management: The inner surface of the Vortec manifold isn't smooth. It features strategically placed internal ribs and vanes that create controlled turbulence, helping to atomize the fuel-air mixture for more complete combustion. Who Benefits from Vortec Manifolds? Proterra Power’s Vortec intake manifolds aren’t targeted at everyday commuters. They’re designed for applications where performance is paramount. This includes: High-Performance Vehicles: Car enthusiasts and racers looking to squeeze every last horsepower out of their engines will see significant gains with Vortec. Off-Road Vehicles: Jeeps, ATVs, and other off-road machines require consistent power delivery, even under extreme conditions. The Vortec manifold delivers just that. Marine Applications: Boats and other marine vessels demand reliable performance and fuel efficiency. The Vortec manifold can help meet those demands. Industrial Engines: Generators, pumps, and other industrial equipment benefit from increased power output and reduced emissions. Heavy-Duty Trucks & Equipment: While Proterra is known for electrification in this space, Vortec provides a performance upgrade for existing diesel or gasoline powered equipment. Testing & Results Proterra Power subjected the Vortec manifolds to rigorous testing on a variety of engines. The results were consistently impressive. On a standard 6.0L V8 engine, the Vortec manifold delivered: Up to a 15% increase in horsepower: This translates to noticeable gains in acceleration and overall performance. Up to a 10% increase in torque: More torque means improved towing capacity and better low-end responsiveness. Up to a 5% improvement in fuel efficiency: More power without sacrificing fuel economy is a win-win. Reduced Emissions: More complete combustion leads to lower levels of harmful emissions. “We didn’t just want to build another intake manifold. We wanted to build a better one,” says the Proterra Power engineer leading the Vortec project. “We focused on optimizing every aspect of airflow, from the plenum to the runners, to deliver a truly superior product.” Availability & Ordering The Vortec intake manifolds are available now through Proterra Power’s website (details to be announced) and through select authorized dealers. The manifolds are offered in a variety of finishes and configurations to suit a wide range of engine applications. Proterra Power also offers custom engineering services to tailor the Vortec manifold to specific customer requirements. Looking Ahead While Proterra Power remains committed to its core mission of electric vehicle innovation, the company sees the Vortec intake manifolds as a natural extension of its engineering expertise. “We believe that our commitment to optimization and performance can benefit a wider range of applications,” says a Proterra Power executive. “The Vortec manifold is just the beginning. We’re constantly exploring new ways to leverage our technology to improve performance and efficiency, whether it’s with batteries, electric motors, or even traditional combustion engines.” Contact: Proterra Power 1815 Rollins Rd Burlngame, CA 94010-2204 254-542-8622 [Website - Details coming soon]