Fredericton’s Potential Motors has inked a testing deal with Minnesota-based CFMOTO Powersports, which sells ATVs and other off-road vehicles, to integrate Potential’s vehicle control software into CFMOTO’s vehicles.

The companies said in a statement that the partnership will involve extensive testing at both Potential’s New Brunswick testing facility and CFMOTO’s own properties, and will allow CFMOTO to “evaluate” Potential’s Terrain Intelligence and Off-Road OS.

“The integration of Potential’s technology into CFMOTO's vehicles will set new standards in the side-by-side segment,” said Potential CEO Sam Poirier in a statement.

“Moreover, as our first commercial program in side-by-sides, this partnership validates the incredible work done over many years by the talented team here at Potential.”

Founded in 2018 by a team of engineering students from the University of New Brunswick, Potential is developing software for off-road EVs that manages tasks like modulating how much power is sent to the wheels, how the vehicle responds to steering input and the behaviour of adjustable suspension systems.

Road-going vehicles rely on similar technology, but the reduced traction and uneven terrain of off-road environments presents unique challenges. And Potential’s OS includes an artificial intelligence-based terrain detection system that looks ahead and adjusts the vehicle's suspension and torque settings in response.

Last year, the company announced it will also build an electric, off-road camper, partly to showcase its vehicle control tech.