ZEV Technologies, a maker of handguns, AR-style rifles and firearms components, has announced the relocation of its headquarters and manufacturing operations to Riverton. The move from Washington state was driven by the brand’s desire to conduct its business in a state that “respects Second Amendment rights and fosters a positive business environment for 2A-affiliated brands,” the company’s announcement said.
ZEV’s relocation is occurring in phases, with some business functions already relocated to Riverton. The move to the Salt Lake City metropolitan area is expected to be complete by May 31.
ZEV said that Utah is a growing hub for firearm-related manufacturing and innovation and offers a skilled workforce and strong infrastructure to support the intricate nature of firearm production. In Riverton, ZEV Technologies will occupy a 40,000-square-foot facility, expanding the company’s overall manufacturing capacity. The relocation aims to bring new jobs into the valley by the time it is complete, including advanced manufacturing, engineering and operational roles.
“Due to the evolving political climate in Washington state, our company determined that it could no longer, in good conscience, continue operations in a jurisdiction where law-abiding citizens are restricted from purchasing and owning the products we manufacture,” said ZEV Technologies President Taylor Goode. “Relocating to Utah represents a strategic decision that not only expands our capacity for growth and scalability but also strengthens our ability to invest in innovation, advanced manufacturing and product development.”
“This transition positions ZEV Technologies to accelerate innovation and more effectively meet the evolving needs of our highly discerning customer base,” Goode concluded.
ZEV was started in 2005 with a focus on competitive shooters, but over time, its customer base expanded to military and law enforcement users and then to retail gun stores and ranges with a line of pistols and rifles and upgrade parts for Glock firearms.