Diesel engines have powered the global economy for over a century. Optimus Technologies is
making sure they can power the future, too.
Based in Pittsburgh, Optimus has developed a system that allows existing diesel engines to run
on renewable fuels — like biodiesel derived from used cooking oil or agricultural byproducts —
without sacrificing performance.
It’s a deceptively elegant solution to a massive challenge.
While electric vehicles dominate headlines, the reality is that heavy-duty transportation from
freight trucks to municipal fleets still relies heavily on diesel. In fact, roughly 70% of freight in
the U.S. moves by truck. Replacing that infrastructure overnight isn’t feasible.
Optimus offers a bridge.
Its Vector System, a combination of hardware and software, can be installed on existing
vehicles in just a couple of days. The system allows engines to seamlessly switch between
traditional diesel and low-emission renewable fuels, giving fleet operators flexibility without
operational risk.
The company is already making an impact.
Customers include major organizations like the City of Washington, D.C., which uses the
technology across hundreds of vehicles, and PepsiCo, where Optimus systems are helping
reduce emissions in commercial fleets. From garbage trucks to long-haul semis, the technology
is proving its versatility in real-world conditions.
Looking ahead, Optimus is expanding into public transit — a sector with high fuel consumption
and significant emissions impact. With buses running nearly round-the-clock, the potential for
environmental and cost savings is substantial.
For founder Colin Huwyler, who began developing the technology as an undergraduate at the
University of Pittsburgh, the journey has been long, but the timing is perfect.
As industries seek practical, scalable paths to sustainability, Optimus is delivering a solution
that doesn’t require starting over — just upgrading what already works.
They read the field and adapt fast.
Optimus Technologies enables fleets to transition to low-carbon fuel solutions through its advanced fuel system technology. Founder and CEO, Colin Huwyler’s passion for improving and then building biofuel systems for heavy-duty vehicles, positions Optimus as a practical low CO2 emissions solution for trucking fleets.