DriversRecommendedOutdated drivers can make a good PC feel brokenScan driver issues before chasing fixes manually.Scan NowHalloween DealsAmazon USHalloween week deals: useful picks before month-endAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsPC HealthRecommendedCrashes, freezes, slowdowns? Check your PC nowSpot repairable issues before they interrupt work.Check PC×
Skip to content
CarCodyAdvertise
Service recordThe Garage

Bollinger’s B1 and B2: What Their EV Design Made Possible

Bollinger’s proposed B1 SUV and B2 pickup showed how a purpose-built EV layout could open new cargo routes and work features. The vehicles were later postponed as the company shifted to commercial trucks.
Entry994 Date Time4 min MechanicCarCody Team
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Bollinger’s proposed B1 SUV and B2 pickup illustrated how a purpose-built electric platform could make room for cargo routes and work features that are difficult to package around a conventional engine, radiator and longitudinal transmission. Their design remains a useful example of EV packaging—but the B1 and B2 were postponed, and they are not current consumer vehicles for sale.

Why the B1 and B2 had unusual cargo flexibility

A conventional truck or SUV is organized around a front-mounted engine and the components that connect it to the wheels. Bollinger’s concept took a different approach: electric propulsion allowed the design to open routes through the front and length of the vehicle for long items.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Frunkgate and Passthrough

The proposed B1 and B2 featured a front fold-down panel Bollinger called the “Frunkgate,” which could also serve as a work surface, and a lengthwise “Passthrough” for carrying long cargo. IEEE Spectrum reported in 2020 that the B2 could accommodate items up to 4.9 meters long and the B1 up to 4 meters. Those are article-era claims about the proposed vehicles, not measurements of production models.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Robert Bollinger, the company’s founder, summarized the Frunkgate’s appeal to IEEE Spectrum: “It’s a simple idea, but it transforms the truck.” The practical point was not simply more storage; it was a different path for moving awkward materials through a vehicle.

#1 Best Overall
BMOKUAE Car Heaters for Vehicle for Bollinger B1 Electric SUV MPDV Wave, Car Heater Windshield Defroster and Defogger, 2 in 1 Portable Heater and Cool Fan, Plugs Into Cigarette Lighter
  • 🚗【Applicable Models】:Car Heaters for Vehicle for Bollinger B1 Electric SUV MPDV Wave. Before purchasing, please check your vehicle model and the available space on the dashboard to help support a secure setup
  • ✅【Adjustable Angles】:The car heater comes with a rotating base that lets you direct the airflow where you need it. You can tilt or turn it to warm your hands, upper body, or send air toward the windshield for quicker defogging and defrosting
  • 💟【Clear View】:Car heaters for vehicle deliver a directed stream of warm air toward the windshield to help melt frost and clear fog. This reduces the need to wipe the glass on winter rain-or-snow days and helps maintain a clearer forward view while driving
  • ✨【Multi-Mode】:This portable car heater offers both warm-air and airflow-circulation modes, making it suitable for winter heating, defogging, and summer ventilation. With a simple switch, you can get the airflow you need for year-round commuting and daily driving
  • 🚀【Easy to Install & Store】: This compact heater uses a strong double-sided adhesive—just peel and stick it onto the dashboard for quick setup. When not in use, it can be easily removed and stored in the glove box or side pocket. If you have questions about your received portable heater for car, please contact us immediately

Designed for work, not just cargo volume

IEEE Spectrum described a 244-liter front storage compartment for tools and electrical outlets supplied by an onboard inverter. Together with the fold-down panel, those features suggested a vehicle that could act as a mobile work surface and power source. They were part of the B1/B2 proposal, not verified specifications for a vehicle customers can buy today.

What the design says about electric-vehicle platforms

The broader design argument is about where a vehicle starts. Many early electric vehicles adapted platforms originally engineered for combustion engines. That left designers working around packaging choices made for an engine, radiator and transmission while also finding space for a large battery.

Rank #2
BMOKUAE Car Seat Cushion for Bollinger B1 Electric SUV MPDV Wave, Comfort Adult Car Seat Driver Height Boost Mat, Memory Foam Booster Chair Pillow Pad, Breathable Removable Cover
  • 🚗【Applicable Models】:Car Seat Cushion for Bollinger B1 Electric SUV MPDV Wave. Please check your vehicle model and seat size before purchasing to help confirm compatibility
  • ✨【Premium Materials】:These seat cushions feature a breathable fabric surface that supports airflow and helps reduce stuffiness during extended sitting. The inner layer uses slow-rebound memory foam that adapts to pressure areas and helps distribute seating pressure more evenly, making it suitable for use throughout the year
  • 💟【Multi-Scene Use】:This seat cushion is suitable not only for car seats, but also for office chairs and home seating. Whether used for driving, working, studying, or relaxing at home, it provides additional seating support for people who spend long periods sitting
  • ✅【Front-Low, Rear-Raised Design】:This chair cushion is designed with a lower front and higher rear profile, helping raise the seating viewpoint without limiting leg movement. Pedals can be reached naturally during braking or acceleration, supporting a more relaxed leg position that aligns well with driving and long sitting habits
  • 🎄【Lightweight and Easy to Move】:This seat cushion for car use has a balanced weight that makes it easy to carry and store. It can be moved conveniently between different vehicles or seating locations. No complex setup is required—simply place it on the seat for immediate use, making it suitable for users who switch between multiple seating environments. If you have questions about your received automotive seat cushions, please contact us

A purpose-built EV can arrange its battery below the floor and its motors near the wheels, freeing more of the space above the platform for passenger, cargo and work functions. The low battery placement can also lower the vehicle’s center of gravity. Robert Bollinger put the blank-sheet philosophy this way in IEEE Spectrum: “If you start from the ground up, you make a much more efficient and wonderful vehicle.” That is a design principle, not proof that every purpose-built EV is more efficient than every converted one.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

The B1 and B2 made that freedom visible through the Frunkgate and Passthrough. Their significance lies in how packaging can shape what a vehicle does, rather than in a controlled comparison showing that they outperform a particular truck or SUV.

Rank #3
Truck Bed Tarp for Bollinger B1 Electric SUV, Waterproof Cover
  • 【APPLICABLE MODELS】For Bollinger B1 Electric SUV.
  • 【DURABLE OXFORD FABRIC】Crafted from heavy-duty woven fabric engineered with tear-resistant fibers to help resist harsh weather wear. The resilient outer layer helps reduce scratches from flying debris, while high-density inner coating keeps moisture out to maintain long-lasting bed utility.
  • 【ALL-WEATHER PROTECTION】Helps shield your vehicle tub against rain, snow, road grime, and sun exposure during transit. It helps keep luggage and gear dry during highway travel while preventing leaf buildup during outdoor parking, providing dependable protection across all four seasons.
  • 【REFLECTIVE SECURE FIT】Features integrated high-visibility yellow reflective strips to help enhance safety during night parking or low-light conditions. Elastic hem tension straps combined with durable hooks create a streamlined barrier over the tailgate, helping prevent fabric flapping at speed.
  • 【QUICK SETUP STORAGE】Engineered for tool-free attachment within minutes using intuitive clip hooks along the body edges, eliminating drilling. The flexible material folds down easily into a compact size for seamless storage under the seat, and dust can be quickly wiped clean with water.

Rugged details supported the work-vehicle idea

The proposal paired its cargo openings with features aimed at rough terrain and demanding loads. IEEE Spectrum highlighted all-wheel drive, removable body panels, portal axles, ground clearance and water-wading ability. It also reported a payload capability of 2.3 metric tons. These were features and figures reported for the planned vehicles in 2020; the article does not establish that they were independently tested on production vehicles.

That mix matters to the design thesis: a long-item route is useful only if the rest of the vehicle suits the job. The B1/B2 concept combined cargo access with off-road intent and worksite utility, rather than treating the unusual openings as styling alone.

Rank #4
BMOKUAE Car Trash Can for Bollinger B1 Electric SUV B2 Electric Pickup, Trash with Lid, Foldable Car Trash Bin, Can Adjustable Straps, Multipurpose Organizers and Storage, Interior Accessories
  • 🔸【Applicable Models】:Car Trash Can for Bollinger B1 Electric SUV B2 Electric Pickup, please confirm your vehicle model before purchase to ensure proper fit and compatibility
  • 🔸 【Premium Material】: Made from Oxford material with a refined texture, this foldable trash bin is wear-resistant and stylish. The built-in leak-resistant, wipeable liner keeps liquids contained, makes cleaning effortless, and helps control odors — leaving your car neat and fresh with zero extra effort
  • 🔸 【Adjustable & Foldable Design】: This car trash bin features a fully adjustable strap to hang on the headrest, gear shift, or center console for optimal placement. The foldable, space-saving design prevents spills, keeps your car tidy, and frees up extra room for passengers and gear
  • 🔸【Multipurpose design】:This foldable trash bin isn’t just for trash — it doubles as a handy car organizer. Use it to keep tissues, snacks, toys, or wipes neatly organized during road trips, school runs, or family outings, with side pockets for small essentials within easy reach
  • 🔸【Customer Service】: We value your experience! If you have any questions about installation or use, our friendly support team is here to our friendly support team is here to help and will ensure issue is resolved to your satisfaction

What Bollinger reported for the proposed B1 and B2

The following figures are claims or plans reported by IEEE Spectrum in 2020. They should not be read as current specifications, confirmed production results, or an offer to buy.

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Item 2020 IEEE Spectrum report
Long-item capacity B2: up to 4.9 meters; B1: up to 4 meters
Claimed output 614 horsepower and 668 pound-feet of torque
Claimed acceleration 0–60 mph in 4.5 seconds
Described battery capacity 120 kilowatt-hours
Described front storage 244 liters
Described payload capability 2.3 metric tons
Article-era stated planned price US$125,000
Article-era production plan 1,000 B1/B2 vehicles planned for 2021
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Why the B1 and B2 are not current consumer offerings

The 2020 article described plans to build 1,000 vehicles in 2021, but that schedule did not hold. In 2021, Bollinger Motors said it was postponing B1/B2 development and shifting its focus to commercial trucks and fleets. The company also said it would refund reservations while it awaited a more definitive timeline for resuming the program. Bollinger Motors’ 2021 announcement did not provide a firm restart date.

Best Value
optrcn Pickup Truck Cover for Bollinger B1 (Electric SUV), Water-Resistant Truck Covers, Full Outdoor Pickup Covers, Rain Snow Protection Heavy Duty Pickup Truck Covers
  • 【Vehicle Compatibility】Heavy duty pickup truck cover for Bollinger B1 (Electric SUV). Designed for daily outdoor parking and long-term storage, this pickup truck cover waterproof all weather helps protect your vehicle from rain, dust, dirt, leaves, and snow. The full exterior coverage helps keep your truck cleaner while reducing everyday wear caused by changing outdoor conditions
  • 【Durable Oxford Fabric Protection】Crafted from durable Oxford fabric with reinforced double-stitched seams, this heavy duty truck cover is designed for reliable outdoor performance. The weather-resistant material helps reduce exposure to rain, snow, wind, dust, and sand while helping keep your vehicle surface cleaner during storage. This waterproof pickup truck cover offers dependable coverage for daily use and seasonal parking protection.
  • 【Windproof & Practical Design】This waterproof pickup truck cover features adjustable windproof buckle straps at the front, middle, and rear to help improve stability during windy weather. Reflective safety strips increase nighttime visibility when parked outdoors, while integrated air vents help promote airflow and reduce moisture buildup underneath the cover. A practical outdoor truck cover designed for convenience and everyday protection
  • 【All Season Outdoor Coverage】Built for year-round outdoor use, this all weather pickup truck cover helps shield your vehicle from sunlight, rain, snow, dirt, bird droppings, and other common outdoor elements. The durable waterproof material helps reduce moisture accumulation and sun exposure during daily parking or storage. Suitable for summer heat, winter weather, and changing seasonal conditions
  • 【Quick & Easy Installation】Designed for fast setup without tools, this pickup truck cover can be installed quickly with adjustable straps and an elastic hem for a more secure fit. The fitted design helps minimize shifting during outdoor use and provides convenient everyday coverage for most compatible truck models. Ideal for users looking for an easy install truck cover, secure fit truck cover, and outdoor waterproof pickup truck cover

The company’s later direction was commercial. A September 23, 2024 company release says Bollinger pivoted in 2022 to the Class 4 B4 commercial truck and reached production of its first customer-ready B4 in September 2024. A 2025 SEC-filed company update likewise discusses commercial EV products, including B4 and Urban Delivery activity; it does not establish that consumer B1/B2 production resumed.

So the B1 and B2 are best understood as a historical design proposal, not as vehicles with a current order path or current price. Their packaging ideas can still help explain what a purpose-built EV platform permits.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More from the Garage

  1. Entry001Date09 OCT 26Time3 minWhich Brake Pad Should You Buy From RockAuto or Elsewhere?Section: Blog
  2. Entry002Date09 OCT 26Time5 minThe Pros and Cons of Touchless Car Wash SystemsSection: Blog
  3. Entry003Date09 OCT 26Time3 minCan a Trickle Charger or Battery Tender Properly Charge a Car Battery?Section: Blog

Thanks for visiting Carcody

Carcody.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.co

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?Free scan - under a minute

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.