ZEV Technologies has officially announced the relocation of its headquarters and manufacturing operations from Centralia, Washington to Riverton, Utah, marking a major transition for one of the firearm industry’s most recognizable performance brands.
ZEV built its reputation by producing premium aftermarket components for Glock pistols before eventually expanding into complete rifles (by purchasing Mega Arms), creating platforms such as the OZ9 and the Folding Defensive Platform (FDP). Over the years, the company has grown from a boutique parts manufacturer into a major player in the modern firearms market.
Leaving Washington Behind
The move comes amid growing frustration within the firearm industry over Washington state’s increasingly restrictive gun laws and regulatory climate. Once home to a thriving firearms manufacturing community, the state has seen multiple companies either reduce operations or leave entirely as legislation continues tightening around the industry.
For ZEV, the decision appears rooted in both business expansion and political realities. The company cited Utah’s pro-Second Amendment environment, manufacturing infrastructure, and workforce as key reasons behind the relocation.
ZEV will occupy a new 40,000-square-foot facility in Riverton, significantly expanding its manufacturing footprint while potentially bringing additional jobs and investment into the area.
According to the company, the full relocation process is expected to be completed by May 31.
Press Release
Riverton, Utah –ZEV Technologies, maker of performance handguns, AR-style rifles, components, and the new Folding Defensive Platform, announces the relocation of its headquarters and manufacturing operations to Riverton, Utah. 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. For years, no such environment existed in Washington.
ZEV’s relocation is occurring in waves, with some business functions already relocated to Riverton. The move to the 2A-friendly Salt Lake City metropolitan area is expected to be complete by May 31.
A growing hub for firearm-related manufacturing and innovation, Utah 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. 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,” said ZEV Technologies President Taylor Goode. “This transition positions ZEV Technologies to accelerate innovation and more effectively meet the evolving needs of our highly discerning customer base.”
From its beginning with triggers, ZEV has built its business with the philosophy that any product it made had to be the best product of its type available on the market. Over time, ZEV’s customer base expanded from competitive shooters to elite military and law enforcement and ultimately, into leading gun stores and ranges for every shooter.
Today ZEV offers its own award-winning lines of pistols and rifles in addition to providing the most comprehensive line of premium upgrade parts for Glock. ZEV customers can be confident they are carrying the best product available whether it is in the competitive arena, the battlefield, or at their local range.
Conclusion
ZEV’s relocation highlights a broader trend within the firearms industry as manufacturers increasingly move operations toward states with stronger Second Amendment protections and more favorable business environments. For Utah, the move strengthens its growing reputation as a hub for firearms innovation and manufacturing.
For ZEV, the transition provides more than just additional factory space it gives the company room to scale production, expand research and development, and continue evolving its product lineup without the uncertainty of Washington’s shifting political climate.
The next chapter for ZEV Technologies officially begins in Utah.