Navitas Vehicle Systems
Driving Innovation for Niche Electric Vehicle Markets

Navitas Vehicle Systems works in a part of the electric vehicle market that large OEMs tend to ignore. Instead of chasing huge orders, the company focuses on small and mid-sized manufacturers that need solutions built for their projects. Clients get direct access to engineers who handle custom software, system integration, and hands-on technical support, something larger suppliers rarely offer.

The company started in 1989 as a spin-off from the University of Waterloo, designing DC motor controllers. Over nearly four decades, Navitas has grown into a global provider of motor controls, batteries, displays, and fully integrated EV systems. That experience lets the company combine precise engineering with the flexibility to tackle each client’s unique challenges and deliver solutions that actually work in the real world.

“Our customer-first approach allows smaller manufacturers to incorporate advanced features into their vehicles without being constrained by the rigid frameworks of mass-market solutions,” says J. Todd Dussault, Director of Sales.

Comprehensive Solutions with Built-In Flexibility

Navitas delivers a range of motor technologies built to meet the real-world needs of today’s vehicle manufacturers. From reliable DC motors to advanced AC induction and internal permanent magnet (IPM) designs, the portfolio covers voltages from 24 to 100 volts, giving customers the flexibility to balance performance and efficiency for each application.

On the control side, Navitas brings these motors to life with solutions designed for demanding conditions. Its controllers can mimic existing units, letting customers keep wiring harnesses and input/output configurations intact, avoiding costly redesigns. Integrated Bluetooth functionality allows users to adjust speed, torque, and braking from a smartphone or tablet, giving OEMs an easy way to fine-tune performance for applications from factory burden carriers to light mining vehicles.

Navitas also offers smart displays, batteries, and complete system solutions that simplify integration and help equipment reach the market faster. These innovations don’t just support manufacturers—they also advance Canada’s Clean Technology Strategy by helping industries transition from hydraulic and combustion-driven systems to zero-emission electrification.

Extending Lifecycles with Certified Reliability

Navitas supports clients in finding tailored solutions that address both operational needs and performance goals. In one notable instance, when some larger suppliers moved away from certain controller models, customers were left searching for solutions that could keep their existing platforms running.

Navitas addressed this need by developing compatible alternatives that preserve legacy functionality while adding modern enhancements such as Bluetooth connectivity. The result was a smoother transition for customers who wanted proven reliability with the benefits of updated technology. Manufacturers were able to continue production of established vehicles without costly redesigns, while end users benefited from improved functionality.

By extending equipment lifecycles and reducing waste, Navitas not only saves customers money but also supports Canada’s Net-Zero 2050 commitments. Extending vehicle life reduces unnecessary manufacturing emissions, a priority under Canada’s Clean Canada plan. Similarly, upgrading existing fleets rather than scrapping them aligns with government initiatives on sustainability and resource efficiency.

Commitment to Jobs, Innovation, and Growth

Navitas’ dedication to quality is reinforced by its ISO and JDQ certifications, which guarantee compliance with stringent international standards and assure customers of safety and durability. At the same time, its status as a privately held company preserves a spirit of agility and innovation.

Looking ahead, Navitas’ expansion plans—including a new R&D and manufacturing hub in Waterloo—directly align with federal programs such as the Sustainable Jobs Training Fund and the Strategic Innovation Fund’s Net Zero Accelerator. These initiatives are designed to foster high-quality employment, advanced manufacturing, and Canadian-led clean-tech development.

By growing its workforce, investing in automation, and building export capacity, Navitas will contribute to domestic job creation, industrial electrification, and Canada’s global competitiveness in clean technology.

Navitas continues to demonstrate that smaller manufacturers need not compromise on innovation or support. By combining engineering expertise with flexible, adaptable solutions, the company positions its clients to explore new vehicle concepts, adopt emerging technologies, and respond quickly to shifting market demands. With Navitas as a partner, smaller manufacturers can confidently expand their capabilities, experiment with advanced features, and play a leading role in shaping the next generation of electric vehicles—all while reinforcing Canada’s economic growth, sustainability commitments, and leadership in green technology.