Lordstown's 'Endurance' showcased at White House

Lordstown Motors CEO Steve Burns showed the Valley's 'Endurance' to President Donald Trump Monday in the White House South Lawn, with his visit to Washington D.C. to showcase the all-electric truck that will be built at the former GM Lordstown plant.
During the Sept. 28 visit, Trump said "We've been working on this very long and very hard because General Motors left the plant," Trump said. "But they went in, and they have an incredible vehicle."
The president marveled about the technology of the all-electric vehicle, saying "This is a really unique thing because the four wheels are - hub motor, hub motor - this is the only one that does this in the world. It has a lot of advantages."
The company has received 40,000 pre-orders for the Endurance, which is scheduled to start delivery in late summer 2021.
"The area was devastated when General Motors moved out," Trump said. "Beyond the plant, it's incredible what's happened in the area. It's booming now. It's absolutely booming. ... It's an incredible piece of science, technology. It's going to happen now with more and more trucks. And ultimately they say you'll be able to do it for less money, and it's better, which is a good combination."
U.S. Senator Rob Portman attended the White House event and said, "I applaud President Trump for featuring Lordstown Motors' new Endurance All-Electric Pickup Truck at the White House today. This new production underscores the hope and excitement about this new investment in the Mahoning Valley. I've been proud to work closely with the community leaders in Lordstown and administration officials to help make the production of this truck and Lordstown Motors' success possible. I believe that Lordstown Motors can be a significant economic engine for the Mahoning Valley and create much-needed jobs for the world-class workforce there."
Peter Navarro, Assistant to the President and Director of the Office of Trade and Manufacturing Policy said "This didn't happen by accident. When the GM plant shut down, the President and Sen. Portman sprung into action. This is a great partnership."
U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan (OH-13) issued a response to Lordstown Motors' White House visit.
"The incredible innovation and craftsmanship of the Mahoning Valley was on full display today. I was excited to see Lordstown Motors visit the White House today and show off the Endurance truck. I applaud Lordstown Motors in creating an incredible truck and giving our community the opportunity to continue to do what we do best – build world-class vehicles. I will continue to use my position to assist Lordstown Motors in whatever they need to get to the next level," Ryan said.
Recent polls show Trump and Joe Biden in a close race for the presidential race, making Ohio an important swing state.