Morgan Olson Introduces Kestrel Work Truck
Morgan Olson, the top manufacturer of walk-in step vans in North America, officially unveiled its Kestrel Work Truck, an extensively customized Jeep Gladiator, at Utility Expo 2025. This launch signifies an expansion of the company’s commercial offerings.
Expanding Product Lineup
The introduction of the Kestrel marks a significant update to Morgan Olson’s product range, which already includes the Route Star side-load step van launched in April. Both models were presented at the Utility Expo 2025 in Louisville, Kentucky, as confirmed by Director of Marketing and Communications Ken Klein to Equipment Finance News during the event.
Feedback and Market Applications
Morgan Olson initially showcased the Kestrel at Jeep Fest, which started on July 31 in Toledo, Ohio. Since then, the company has been garnering customer feedback on various potential applications for the vehicle, including uses by municipalities, fire departments, and utility companies, according to Klein.
Vehicle Features
The Kestrel is built on the Jeep Gladiator Sport chassis, which has a starting price of $38,695 and retains the same fundamental features. The vehicle can be ordered through Jeep’s standard procedures and comes in both left- and right-hand drive options, as well as flexible cargo configurations suitable for various industries.
Customizable Solutions for Diverse Needs
Klein explains that the Kestrel Work Truck provides a customizable base that can be tailored by specialized partners to meet the varied requirements of different industries. He emphasizes that there are limitless upfitting solutions available, ensuring that the vehicle is ready for work when delivered.
Commitment to Innovation
The Kestrel’s launch underscores Morgan Olson’s dedication to innovation, customer collaboration, and durability in commercial vehicle manufacturing. The product is set to be available starting in spring 2026. Notably, JB Poindexter & Co., Morgan Olson’s parent company, controls a significant share of the medium-duty truck body market and the walk-in step van segment.
Collaboration in Truck Upfitting
Growing demand for customized vehicles, such as the Kestrel, necessitates enhanced collaboration among OEMs, upfitters, and service partners. Chris Rolsen, vice president of fleet sales at Knapheide, highlights the importance of communication to ensure smooth workflows and effective branding, regardless of whether the deal comes through fleet management coordinators or directly from customers.
