Grounded, the Detroit-based modular EV startup founded by former SpaceX engineers, today announced the launch of the C1, one of the world’s first hybrid mobile command centers with a 500-mile range. The C1, built on Harbinger’s commercial-grade electric truck platform and built for fleet deployment, is designed to empower municipalities, nonprofits and government agencies with a durable, sustainable solution for mission-critical mobile operations — from incident command and disaster response to on-the-ground public health services, Grounded said in a release.
“Expanding into government and healthcare fleets is a natural evolution for Grounded,” said Grounded CEO Sam Shapiro. “Today’s public safety, disaster response and public health teams need more payload, more range, and more flexibility than smaller platforms can deliver. The C1 is our answer — it’s an electrified powerhouse that delivers sustainability without sacrificing mission readiness.”
Key Features of the C1
Grounded’s C1 is available on multiple wheelbases and on either an all-electric or plug-in hybrid chassis. The vehicle is designed to meet the demands of long shifts and continuous uptime, the company said.
“For long shifts in the field, durability alone isn’t enough. Design matters too,” said Grounded Chief Product Officer Nadia Meyer. “Human-centered design for the C1 puts intuitive systems and ergonomic layouts first, enabling responder comfort, endurance and the ability to act faster when it matters most.”
The C1 delivers continuous performance by pairing an electric-first solution with a gas-powered range extender to power both mobility and auxiliary systems, with roof-mounted solar and a dedicated house battery providing additional support.
Front pedestrian braking, parking assist and lane-keeping support enhance fleet safety and protect both drivers and communities. Integrated Starlink delivers secure, high-speed communications anywhere.
Every C1 comes with Harbinger’s platform warranty (8 years/100,000 miles) and a Grounded interior warranty, with national serviceability through Harbinger’s growing network. Charging compatibility spans CCS-enabled networks such as Ford and Electrify America, with additional access to Tesla Superchargers.
The Grounded+ App further enhances fleet visibility by providing remote monitoring of energy usage, appliance control, real-time diagnostics and optimization tools that empower operators to manage costs and prevent failures before they occur.
The C1 is available in three builds that scale with municipal needs from essential response to fully equipped hubs for command, disaster response or public health:
- C1 Core: Streamlined interior for reliable, sustainable mobility and core command/health operations in small municipalities.
- C1 Advanced: Expanded interior capacity, enhanced power systems, integrated safety features, and hybrid flexibility for midsize and regional agencies.
- C1 Pro: Maximum range, advanced communications, and fully customizable interiors for the most demanding mission-critical deployments — whether as a full mobile command center or turnkey mobile clinic.
First Public Debut: Climate Week NYC
The Grounded C1 made its first public appearance at Climate Week NYC on Sept. 24 at Newlab in the Brooklyn Navy Yard.
Availability
The Grounded C1 is now open for orders with shipments beginning in Q2 2026. Grounded said final pricing will vary depending on configuration and upfit.
