STOCK TITAN

Envirotech (NASDAQ: EVTV) to issue 100M shares in Azio AI merger, leaving holders at 11%

(Very High)
(Neutral)
Form Type
8-K

Rhea-AI Filing Summary

Envirotech Vehicles agreed to merge with Azio AI, transforming the company into an AI infrastructure and compute platform. EVTV will issue an aggregate 100,000,000 shares of common stock to Azio AI stockholders, who are expected to own about 89% of the combined company, with current EVTV holders at roughly 11% on a basic basis at closing.

The merger is subject to EVTV stockholder approval, SEC effectiveness of a Form S-4 registration statement, Nasdaq listing of the new shares, and other customary conditions. EVTV previously delivered a $500,000 cash deposit to Azio AI and may owe a $500,000 termination fee in certain break scenarios, with Azio AI retaining the deposit.

Post-closing leadership is expected to shift to an Azio AI-designated team, and the board will expand to seven members. In parallel, EVTV detailed rich services and employment arrangements for key executives, including $500,000 annual base compensation, sizable severance protections, and grants of 1,500,000 EVTV shares upon a Change in Control for each of three senior leaders. The press release highlights approximately 11 MW of secured power capacity, hardware orders for an initial 6 MW, a potential pipeline of up to about 500 MW of additional capacity at the same site, and deposits tied to an initial AI infrastructure order valued at roughly $118 million.

Positive

  • The merger shifts EVTV into AI infrastructure with an initial AI hardware program including deposits tied to an order valued at approximately $118 million, plus about 11 MW of secured power capacity and discussions around up to roughly 500 MW of additional same-site capacity.

Negative

  • Existing EVTV stockholders are expected to own only about 11% of the combined company after issuing 100,000,000 new shares to Azio AI holders, representing substantial dilution and a clear change in control.

Insights

EVTV is effectively executing a reverse-style merger into Azio AI’s AI infrastructure business with major dilution and a new control group.

The transaction issues 100,000,000 new EVTV shares as merger consideration, leaving current stockholders with about 11% of the combined company and former Azio AI holders with about 89%. That scale of equity issuance makes this a transformative change in control rather than a bolt-on deal. A $500,000 deposit has already been paid, and a matching termination fee plus deposit retention can apply in certain break scenarios, reinforcing commitment but adding downside cost if the deal fails.

Strategically, management is pivoting EVTV into AI infrastructure, backed by deposits on an initial infrastructure order valued at approximately $118 million and secured power capacity of about 11 MW, with discussions around up to roughly 500 MW of additional same-site capacity. However, execution depends on closing the merger, securing stockholder approval, maintaining Nasdaq listing, building out the site, and converting infrastructure pipelines and a GB200-focused memorandum of understanding into revenue. Until those milestones are met, the deal primarily reshapes ownership and business focus rather than immediately improving financial results.

Item 1.01 Entry into a Material Definitive Agreement Business
The company signed a significant contract such as a merger agreement, credit facility, or major partnership.
Item 5.01 Changes in Control of Registrant Governance
A change in control of the company occurred, such as through a merger, takeover, or management buyout.
Item 5.02 Departure of Directors or Certain Officers; Election of Directors; Appointment of Certain Officers Governance
Key personnel changes including departures, elections, or appointments of directors and executive officers.
Item 8.01 Other Events Other
Voluntary disclosure of events the company deems important to shareholders but not covered by other items.
Item 9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibits Exhibits
Financial statements, pro forma financial information, and exhibit attachments filed with this report.
Merger share consideration 100,000,000 shares EVTV common stock issued to Azio AI stockholders as Merger Consideration
Ownership post-merger 11% / 89% Approximate basic ownership split EVTV stockholders / former Azio AI stockholders after closing
Deposit paid $500,000 Cash deposit delivered by EVTV to Azio AI before signing the Merger Agreement
Potential termination fee $500,000 Termination fee payable by EVTV to Azio AI in specified break scenarios, with Azio AI retaining the deposit
Initial infrastructure order $118 million Approximate value of initial AI infrastructure order with deposits received by Azio AI
Secured power capacity 11 MW Power capacity ascertained at EVTV’s existing site for AI infrastructure deployment
Additional capacity discussions 500 MW Approximate potential additional same-site capacity under discussion for long-term usage rights
Executive base salary $500,000 per year Annual base compensation for each service provider and the CEO after amendments
Agreement and Plan of Merger financial
"entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the "Merger Agreement") by and among"
An Agreement and Plan of Merger is a formal document where two companies agree to combine into one, outlining how the process will happen. It’s like a step-by-step plan for merging, and it matters because it shows both sides have agreed on the details before the official transition takes place.
Merger Consideration financial
"pro rata portion of an aggregate of 100,000,000 shares of EVTV common stock (the "Merger Consideration")"
Merger consideration is the total payment a company or buyer offers to shareholders of a target company in exchange for combining the two businesses, and can include cash, shares in the surviving company, debt assumption, or a mix of these. Investors care because the form and amount affect the deal’s value, tax consequences, immediate cash received versus future ownership, and the risk and upside of holding new shares — similar to choosing between cash now or stock that could grow later.
Change in Control financial
"upon a Change in Control (as defined in the Services Agreement), each Service Provider will receive a grant of 1,500,000 shares"
A "change in control" occurs when the ownership or management of a company shifts significantly, such as through a merger, acquisition, or sale of a large part of its assets. This change can impact how the company is run and may influence its future direction. For investors, it matters because it can affect the company's stability, strategy, and value, often signaling potential changes in investment risk or opportunity.
fairness opinion financial
"engaged an independent financial advisor to issue a fairness opinion relating to the consideration"
A fairness opinion is a professional assessment that evaluates whether the terms of a financial deal, such as a merger or acquisition, are fair from a financial point of view. It helps investors and stakeholders understand if the deal is reasonable and balanced, much like an independent expert giving an unbiased judgment on whether a price or agreement is fair. This assurance can increase confidence that the transaction is fair for all parties involved.
Form S-4 regulatory
"file with the SEC a registration statement on Form S-4 (the "Registration Statement") containing a proxy statement/prospectus"
A Form S-4 is a legal document that companies file with the government to announce and explain a major business move, such as a merger or acquisition. It provides detailed information to help investors understand how the deal might affect the company's value and future prospects, similar to a detailed blueprint that clarifies the impact of a significant change.
termination fee financial
"the Company would be required to pay Azio AI a termination fee equal to $500,000, and Azio AI would be entitled to retain the Deposit"
A termination fee is a payment required if one party ends a contract before its agreed-upon end date. It acts like a penalty or compensation to the other party for canceling early, similar to a fee you might pay for breaking a lease or canceling a service contract. For investors, it matters because it can influence a company's decisions and financial obligations related to ending agreements prematurely.

AI-generated analysis. How Rhea-AI works. Not financial advice.

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FAQ

What did Envirotech Vehicles (EVTV) announce in this 8-K filing?

Envirotech Vehicles entered into a definitive merger agreement with Azio AI. EVTV will transform into an AI infrastructure and compute platform, issuing 100,000,000 new shares as merger consideration, subject to stockholder approval and other customary closing conditions.

How will the Envirotech Vehicles–Azio AI merger affect EVTV stockholder ownership?

After issuing 100,000,000 shares to Azio AI stockholders, existing EVTV holders are expected to own about 11% of the combined company. Former Azio AI stockholders would own roughly 89% on a basic basis immediately after closing, subject to definitive agreement adjustments.

What strategic business shift does EVTV plan through the Azio AI merger?

The merger is intended to reposition EVTV as a U.S.-focused AI infrastructure and compute platform. The combined company plans to focus on GPU and server rack sales, AI data center capacity, hosting, compute leasing, and related energy-backed data center operations.

What operational scale and pipeline does the combined EVTV and Azio AI platform target?

Management reports about 11 MW of secured power capacity at an existing site, hardware orders for an initial 6 MW, and discussions for up to roughly 500 MW of additional capacity. They also cite deposits on an initial AI infrastructure order valued at approximately $118 million.

What are the key executive compensation terms disclosed by Envirotech Vehicles?

Two service providers and the CEO each receive $500,000 annual base compensation, a $2,000 monthly car allowance for 36 months, and substantial severance. Upon a Change in Control, each is eligible for a 1,500,000-share EVTV grant, subject to stockholder-approved plan capacity.

When is the Envirotech Vehicles and Azio AI merger expected to close?

The transaction received board approvals and Azio AI stockholder approval and is expected to close in the second half of 2026. Closing depends on EVTV stockholder approval, SEC effectiveness of the Form S-4, Nasdaq listing of new shares, and other customary conditions.
false 0001563568 0001563568 2026-05-19 2026-05-19


   
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 8-K
 
CURRENT REPORT PURSUANT
TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
Date of report (Date of earliest event reported): May 19, 2026
 
ENVIROTECH VEHICLES, INC.
 

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)
 
Delaware
 

(State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation)
 
001-38078
 
46-0774222
(Commission File Number)
 
(IRS Employer Identification No.)
7510 Ardmore Street
Houston, TX
 
77054
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
 
(Zip Code)
(870) 970-3355
 

(Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)
Not Applicable 
 

(Former Name or Former Address, if Changed Since Last Report)
 
Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the Registrant under any of the following provisions:
 
Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)
 
Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a -12)
 
Pre -commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d -2(b))
 
Pre -commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))
 
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: 
 
Title of each class
Trading Symbol(s)
Name of each exchange on which registered
Common stock, $0.00001 par value
EVTV
Nasdaq Stock Market LLC
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
 
Emerging growth company   
 
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
 


 

 
Item 1.01.          Entry into a Material Definitive Agreement.
 
Agreement and Plan of Merger
 
On May 19, 2026, Envirotech Vehicles, Inc., a Delaware corporation ("EVTV" or the "Company"), entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the "Merger Agreement") by and among (i) the Company, (ii) Azio AI Corporation, a Delaware corporation ("Azio AI"), and (iii) EV-AZ Merger Sub, Inc., a Delaware corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company ("Merger Sub"). Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, and subject to the satisfaction or waiver of the conditions set forth therein, Merger Sub will merge with and into Azio AI (the "Merger"), with Azio AI continuing as the surviving corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company (the "Surviving Corporation").
 
Merger Consideration
 
At the effective time of the Merger (the "Effective Time"), each share of Azio AI common stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time (other than shares held in treasury or held by Azio AI or Merger Sub and shares for which appraisal rights are properly demanded and perfected in accordance with the Delaware General Corporation Law) will be converted into the right to receive a pro rata portion of an aggregate of 100,000,000 shares of EVTV common stock (the "Merger Consideration"). No fractional shares of EVTV common stock will be issued in the Merger, and any holder who would otherwise be entitled to receive a fractional share of EVTV common stock will instead receive the number of shares of EVTV common stock rounded to the nearest whole share.
Prior to the date of the Merger Agreement, the Company delivered to Azio AI a cash deposit of $500,000 (the "Deposit").
 
Closing; Effective Time
 
The closing of the Merger (the "Closing") is expected to occur on the third business day following the satisfaction or waiver of all conditions to closing set forth in the Merger Agreement (other than those conditions that by their nature are to be satisfied at the Closing, but subject to the satisfaction or waiver of those conditions), or at such other time as the parties may agree in writing. The Merger will become effective upon the filing of a certificate of merger with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware (or at such later time as may be specified in the certificate of merger).
 
At the Effective Time, (a) Merger Sub will merge with and into Azio AI and Azio AI will continue as the Surviving Corporation, (b) all property, rights, privileges, powers and franchises of Azio AI and Merger Sub will vest in the Surviving Corporation, and (c) all debts, liabilities and duties of Azio AI and Merger Sub will become those of the Surviving Corporation.
 
Board of Directors and Officers Following the Merger
 
Prior to the Closing, the Company's board of directors (the "Board") is required to take all actions necessary to, effective as of the Effective Time, expand the Board to seven directors to be comprised of two persons designated by Azio AI, one person designated by the Board, and four persons jointly agreed upon by Azio AI and the Company, who satisfy all applicable independence requirements of the Nasdaq Stock Market (“Nasdaq”) and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”).
 
The Merger Agreement further contemplates that, effective as of the Effective Time, the following individuals will be appointed to serve as officers of the Company: Chris Young as Chief Executive Officer, Simon Yu as Chief Operations Officer, Jason Maddox as Chief Financial Officer, Elgin Tracy as President of Energy, David Shiue as Chief Business Development Officer, Gary Chen as Chief Product Officer, and Jenny Yang as Chief Administrative Officer. The Merger Agreement also provides that any directors and officers of the Company who will not continue in their positions following the Effective Time will resign effective as of the Closing.
 
Registration Statement; Proxy Statement; Stockholder Meeting
 
As promptly as reasonably practicable following the date of the Merger Agreement, the Company and Azio AI will jointly prepare, and the Company will file with the SEC, a registration statement on Form S-4 (the "Registration Statement") containing a proxy statement/prospectus relating to the stockholder vote described below and registering the shares of EVTV common stock to be issued as Merger Consideration.
 
The Company will convene a meeting of its stockholders (the "Stockholder Meeting") to seek stockholder approval of the following proposals (collectively, the "Transaction Proposals"): (i) election of the directors of the Company effective as of the Closing, as contemplated by the Merger Agreement, (ii) approval of the issuance of shares of EVTV common stock in connection with the Merger, (iii) adoption of a new equity incentive plan in the form attached to the Merger Agreement, and (iv) approval and adoption of an amended and restated certificate of incorporation of the Company to, among other things, change the Company's name from "Envirotech Vehicles, Inc." to "Azio AI Holdings, Inc." and make such other changes as described in the form of amended and restated certificate of incorporation attached to the Merger Agreement.
 
 

 
Conditions to the Merger
 
Consummation of the Merger is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of customary conditions, including, among others: (i) receipt of the required approval of EVTV stockholders with respect to the issuance of shares of EVTV common stock in connection with the Merger (the “EVTV Stockholder Approval”), (ii) the Registration Statement having been declared effective by the SEC and no stop order or proceeding seeking a stop order being pending or threatened, (iii) the absence of any law or order of any governmental authority that prohibits, enjoins or makes illegal the consummation of the Merger, and (iv) the approval for listing on Nasdaq of the shares of EVTV common stock to be issued as Merger Consideration, subject to official notice of issuance, and the continued listing of EVTV common stock on Nasdaq.
 
Representations and Warranties; Covenants
 
The Merger Agreement contains customary representations and warranties made by the parties to each other relating to their respective businesses and the transactions contemplated by the Merger Agreement. The Merger Agreement also contains customary covenants, including covenants relating to the conduct of business by Azio AI and the Company prior to the Closing and obligations of the parties to cooperate in seeking required regulatory approvals.
 
Termination
 
The Merger Agreement may be terminated under certain circumstances, including by either party if: (i) the Effective Time has not occurred on or before December 31, 2026 (the "Outside Date"), subject to certain extensions and limitations set forth in the Merger Agreement, or (ii) the required approval of EVTV stockholders has not been obtained at the Stockholder Meeting (or any adjournment or postponement thereof).
 
Upon a termination of the Merger Agreement under specified circumstances, including (i) termination by Azio AI due to a breach or default by the Company under certain circumstances, or (ii) termination by the Company due to the failure to obtain the EVTV Stockholder Approval or in order to enter into a definitive agreement with respect to a Superior Offer (as defined in the Merger Agreement), the Company would be required to pay Azio AI a termination fee equal to $500,000, and Azio AI would be entitled to retain the Deposit. Upon a termination of the Merger Agreement by the Company due to a breach or default by Azio AI under certain circumstances, Azio AI would be required to return the Deposit to the Company.
 
The foregoing description of the Merger Agreement is not complete and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the Merger Agreement, a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit 2.1 and incorporated herein by reference.
 
Item 5.01.          Change in Control of Registrant.
 
The information set forth in Item 1.01 is incorporated by reference into this Item 5.01.
 
Item 5.02.         Departure of Directors or Certain Officers; Election of Directors; Appointment of Certain Officers; Compensatory Arrangements of Certain Officer.
 
Services Agreement
 
On May 19, 2026, the Company entered into a Services Agreement (the "Shell Castle Agreement") with Shell Castle LLC, a Puerto Rico limited liability company ("Shell Castle") that is wholly owned by Jason Maddox, the Company’s President and Interim Chief Financial Officer, pursuant to which Shell Castle will provide executive management services to the Company through a designated principal (initially Mr. Maddox), who will serve as President and Interim Chief Financial Officer of the Company, or such other positions as may be mutually agreed upon and approved by the Board. On May 19, 2026, the Company also entered into a Services Agreement (the "Met Agreement" and, together with the Shell Castle Agreement, each a “Service Agreement” and, collectively, the “Service Agreements”) with Met Consulting LLC, a Puerto Rico limited liability company ("Met" and, together with Shell Castle, each a “Service Provider” and, collectively, the “Service Providers”) that is wholly owned by Elgin Tracy, the Company’s Chief Operating Officer, pursuant to which Met will provide executive management services to the Company through a designated principal (initially Mr. Tracy), who will serve as Chief Operating Officer of the Company, or such other positions as may be mutually agreed upon and approved by the Board.
 
Pursuant to each Services Agreement, the applicable Service Provider will receive annual base compensation of $500,000, payable in equal monthly installments, subject to annual review and increase (but not decrease). Such Service Provider will also receive a monthly car allowance of $2,000, guaranteed for a period of 36 months regardless of any termination of the applicable Services Agreement (other than in the event of a material breach thereof by the Service Provider), and comprehensive health benefits. Each Services Agreement may be terminated by either party thereto without cause upon 60 days' prior written notice. Upon a termination by the Company without "Cause" (as defined in the applicable Services Agreement) or by the Service Provider for "Good Reason" (as defined in the applicable Services Agreement), such Service Provider will be entitled to continuation of annual base compensation for a severance period of 24 months, plus a lump sum payment equal to one year’s annual base compensation, conditioned on the Service Provider’s execution (and non-revocation) of a release of claims in favor of the Company. In addition, upon a Change in Control (as defined in the Services Agreement), each Service Provider will receive a grant of 1,500,000 shares of EVTV’s common stock, subject to the approval by the Company’s shareholders of a sufficient number of shares available for issuance under the Company’s equity plan, which will immediately vest in full upon grant. In addition, in recognition of the applicable Service Provider’s accomplishments on behalf of the Company, such Service Provider will receive a total of $500,000 in 2026 and $500,000 in 2027, which will not be contingent on the Service Provider’s continued service with the Company.
 
 

 
The foregoing description of the Shell Castle Agreement and Met Agreement is not complete and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the Shell Castle Agreement and Met Agreement, copies of which are attached hereto as Exhibits 10.1 and 10.2 to this Current Report on Form 8-K and incorporated herein by reference.
 
Amendment to Employment Agreement
 
On May 19, 2026, the Company entered into an amendment (the “Amendment”) to the Employment Agreement, dated December 31, 2021 (as amended, the “Employment Agreement”), by and between the Company and Phillip W. Oldridge, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer.
 
The Employment Agreement was amended to provide that Mr. Oldridge will receive annual base compensation of $500,000, payable in semi-monthly installments consistent with the Company’s payroll practices, subject to annual review and increase. Mr. Oldridge will also receive a monthly car allowance of $2,000, guaranteed for a period of 36 months from May 2026 regardless of any termination of the Employment Agreement (other than in the event of a material breach thereof by Mr. Oldridge), and comprehensive health benefits. The Employment Agreement may be terminated by either party at any time upon 60 days' prior written notice (other than with respect to a termination by Mr. Oldridge, for “Good Reason” (as defined in the Employment Agreement)). Upon a termination by the Company without "Cause" (as defined in the Employment Agreement) or by Mr. Oldridge for "Good Reason", Mr. Oldridge will be entitled to continuation of annual base compensation for a severance period of 24 months, plus a lump sum payment equal to one year’s annual base compensation, conditioned on his execution (and non-revocation) of a release agreement pertaining to his Employment Agreement. In addition, upon a Change in Control (as defined in the Employment Agreement), Mr. Oldridge will receive a grant of 1,500,000 shares of EVTV’s common stock, subject to the approval by the Company’s shareholders of a sufficient number of shares available for issuance under the Company’s equity plan, which will immediately vest in full upon grant. In addition, in  recognition of his accomplishments on behalf of the Company, Mr. Oldridge will receive a total of $125,000 in, which will not be contingent on his continued service with the Company.
 
The foregoing description of the Amendment is not complete and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the Amendment, a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit 10.3 to this Current Report on Form 8-K and incorporated herein by reference.
 
Item 8.01.          Other Events.
 
On May 20, 2026, the Company issued a press release announcing the signing of the Merger Agreement. A copy of the press release is attached hereto as Exhibit 99.1 and is incorporated herein by reference.
 
Important Information About the Proposed Transaction
 
In connection with the proposed Merger, the Company intends to file with the SEC the Registration Statement that will include a proxy statement of the Company and a prospectus of the Company, as well as other relevant documents concerning the proposed Merger. Investors and stockholders are urged to read the Registration Statement and the proxy statement/prospectus included therein and any other relevant documents filed with the SEC when they become available, because they will contain important information about the Company, Azio AI, and the proposed Merger. Investors and stockholders will be able to obtain copies of those documents free of charge at the SEC's website at www.sec.gov and from the Company's website at www.evtvusa.com/company/investor-relations/.
 
No Offer or Solicitation
 
This Current Report on Form 8-K does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, or a solicitation of any vote or approval, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offer of securities will be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
 
Participants in the Solicitation
 
The Company, Azio AI, and their respective directors and certain of their executive officers may be considered participants in the solicitation of proxies from EVTV's stockholders with respect to the proposed Merger under the rules of the SEC. Information about the directors and executive officers of EVTV is set forth in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, which was filed with the SEC on April 13, 2026, and in subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other documents filed from time to time with the SEC. Additional information regarding the persons who may be deemed participants in the proxy solicitation and a description of their direct and indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, will also be included in the Registration Statement, the proxy statement/prospectus, and other relevant materials to be filed with the SEC when they become available. You may obtain free copies of these documents as described above.
 
 

 
Forward-Looking Statements
 
This Current Report on Form 8-K contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding the proposed Merger, the expected timeline for completing the proposed Merger, the anticipated benefits of the proposed Merger, and any other statements about the Company's or Azio AI's future expectations, beliefs, goals, plans, or prospects. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including the risk that the proposed Merger will not be consummated within the expected time period or at all; the risk that a condition to closing the Merger may not be satisfied; the failure to obtain EVTV stockholder approval; changes in applicable laws or regulations; the possibility that the anticipated benefits of the proposed Merger are not realized when expected or at all; and other risks and uncertainties discussed in the Company's filings with the SEC. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this filing except as required by applicable securities laws.
 
Item 9.01          Financial Statements and Exhibits
 
(a) Exhibits
 
Number
 
Description
2.1*
 
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated May 19, 2026, by and among Envirotech Vehicles, Inc., Azio AI Corporation, and EV-AZ Merger Sub, Inc.
10.1
 
Services Agreement, dated May 19, 2026, by and between Envirotech Vehicles, Inc. and Shell Castle LLC.
10.2
 
Services Agreement, dated May 19, 2026, by and between Envirotech Vehicles, Inc. and Met Consulting LLC.
10.3
 
Amendment to Employment Agreement, dated May 19, 2026, by and between Envirotech Vehicles, Inc. and Phillip W. Oldridge.
99.1
 
Press Release of Envirotech Vehicles, Inc., dated May 20, 2026.
104
 
Cover Page Interactive Data File (embedded within the Inline XBRL document)
 
* Certain schedules have been omitted pursuant to Item 601(a)(5) of Regulation S-K. The Company hereby undertakes to furnish supplementally copies of any of the omitted schedules upon request by the SEC; provided, however, that the Company may request confidential treatment pursuant to Rule 24b-2 of the Exchange Act for any schedules so furnished.
 
 

 
 
SIGNATURES
 
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.
 
 
ENVIROTECH VEHICLES, INC.
 
       
Date: May 20, 2026
By:
 /s/  Phillip W. Oldridge
 
   
Phillip W. Oldridge
 
   
Chief Executive Officer
 
 
 
 
 

Exhibit 99.1

 

Envirotech Vehicles, Inc. (NASDAQ: EVTV) Executes Definitive Merger Agreement with AZIO AI to Create Scalable AI Infrastructure, Compute, and Energy-Backed Data Center Platform

 

EVTV to issue 100 Million Shares; Will Transform the Company into a U.S.-Focused AI Infrastructure and Compute Platform

 

HOUSTON, TX / ACCESS Newswire / May 20, 2026 / Envirotech Vehicles, Inc. (NASDAQ: EVTV) (“EVTV” or the “Company”) today announced that it has entered into a definitive merger agreement with AZIO AI Corporation (“AZIO AI”) as part of the Company’s strategic transformation into an artificial intelligence infrastructure and compute platform focused on domestic AI deployment, data center operations, and long-term compute capacity expansion.

 

The transaction represents a significant strategic transformation for EVTV as the Company positions itself within one of the fastest-growing segments of the global technology market, including artificial intelligence infrastructure, compute deployment, domestic data center expansion, and power-supported AI operations.

 

Since the Company’s original announcement of the signing of a letter of intent with AZIO AI, AZIO AI and AZIO Corp’s AI infrastructure division have continued demonstrating operational advancement across multiple deployment and commercial development activities, including the receipt of deposits associated with an initial infrastructure order valued at approximately $118 million and the successful delivery of the first eight server racks under that program.

 

In parallel, AZIO AI has continued advancing its infrastructure pipeline through execution of a memorandum of understanding relating to next-generation GB200-based AI infrastructure opportunities, reflecting ongoing engagement with prospective high-performance compute customers and continued expansion of AZIO AI’s broader AI infrastructure strategy.

 

Management believes these developments, alongside continued infrastructure deployment activities and expanding commercial discussions, will provide increasing visibility into potential future revenue opportunities and reinforce confidence in the combined platform’s long-term AI infrastructure and compute expansion strategy.

 

Operational and Site Update

 

Approximately 11 MW of power capacity has been ascertained at the Company’s existing site, with hardware orders already placed for an initial 6 MW of deployment. Installation and energization activities are expected to follow as deployment operations continue.

 

 

 

Beyond the secured 11 MW, the Company is currently engaged in discussions relating to long-term ownership and usage rights associated with up to approximately 500 MW of additional available capacity at the same site.

 

Initial hardware deliveries have commenced under the previously disclosed infrastructure program, including the successful delivery of the first eight server racks associated with the customer deployment schedule.

 

Management believes the Company’s access to available power capacity positions the combined platform favorably at a time when many AI infrastructure operators continue facing power availability constraints across the domestic compute market.

 

Revenue Model

 

Following completion of the transaction, the combined company expects to operate across multiple revenue channels, including:

 

 

Sale and distribution of GPUs and server racks to AI infrastructure customers;

 

Co-development and partial ownership of AI data center infrastructure, with initial focus on Texas and select international markets;

 

Company-owned and operated bitcoin mining operations conducted domestically on owned infrastructure; and

 

Hosting and compute leasing arrangements with prospective compute offtakers as AI infrastructure sites become operational.

 

Discussions with prospective compute customers and infrastructure counterparties remain ongoing as deployment activities continue advancing.

 

Valuation and Transaction Structure

 

EVTV engaged an independent financial advisor to issue a fairness opinion relating to the consideration to be issued by EVTV to AZIO AI’s stockholders in the merger transaction. Based on that review, EVTV’s Board of Directors received a fairness opinion that the consideration being issued by EVTV was fair to EVTV and its stockholders.

 

Leadership

 

Following completion of the transaction:

 

 

Chris Young is expected to serve as Chief Executive Officer of the combined company;

 

Elgin Tracy is expected to continue overseeing infrastructure deployment strategy, operational scaling activities, and growth execution initiatives; and

 

Jason Maddox is expected to continue supporting executive operations and infrastructure expansion activities.

 

 

 

The Company estimates that, after giving effect to the issuance of 100 million shares of EVTV common stock contemplated as merger consideration, existing EVTV stockholders would be expected to hold approximately 11% of the combined company and former AZIO AI stockholders would be expected to hold approximately 89% of the combined company on a basic basis immediately following the closing, subject to adjustment in accordance with the terms of the definitive merger agreement.

 

Near-Term Milestones

 

Following execution of the definitive agreement, the combined company’s near-term operational priorities include:

 

 

Preparation and filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) of a Registration Statement on Form S-4 (the “Form S-4”);

 

Deployment activities targeting utilization of the approximately 11 MW of secured power capacity at the existing site; and

 

Pursuit of additional capacity expansion opportunities of up to approximately 100 MW of combined AI compute and bitcoin mining infrastructure at the existing site, subject to availability of capital and finalization of long-term site usage agreements.

 

Management Commentary

 

“Over the last six months, both organizations continued advancing infrastructure deployment activities, customer onboarding efforts, and transaction execution initiatives,” said Elgin Tracy, COO of EVTV. “Execution of the definitive merger agreement represents a major strategic milestone towards creating a combined company poised to advance domestic AI infrastructure deployment and long-term compute expansion initiatives.”

 

Closing Conditions

 

The transaction has received approval by the boards of directors of both companies and by the stockholders of AZIO AI and is expected to close in the second half of 2026, subject to certain closing conditions, including, among others, approval by the stockholders of EVTV, the effectiveness of the Form S-4 to register the securities to be issued in connection with the proposed merger and the satisfaction of other customary closing conditions.

 

About Envirotech Vehicles, Inc.

 

Envirotech Vehicles, Inc. (NASDAQ: EVTV) is a technology-focused company pursuing strategic initiatives designed to enhance long-term shareholder value through platform transformation, operational realignment, and selective acquisitions.

 

 

 

About AZIO AI

 

AZIO AI is an artificial intelligence infrastructure company focused on the sale and distribution of GPUs and server racks, co-development of AI data center capacity in domestic and international markets, and operation of compute and bitcoin mining systems.

 

Forward-Looking Statements

 

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by words such as "may," "will," "could," "expect," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "project," "intend," "continue," "potential," "ongoing," or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Forward-looking statements include statements regarding deployment of the approximately 11 MW of secured power capacity at the Company’s existing site; completion of hardware orders for an initial 6 MW of deployment; the Company’s ability to finalize long-term ownership and usage rights associated with additional same-site capacity; anticipated expansion opportunities involving up to approximately 500 MW of combined AI compute and bitcoin mining infrastructure; expected revenue opportunities associated with GPU and server rack sales, AI infrastructure deployment, bitcoin mining operations, hosting arrangements, and compute leasing activities; potential conversion of the memorandum of understanding relating to GB200-based AI infrastructure opportunities into future commercial relationships; anticipated filing and effectiveness of the Form S-4; the expected timing of consummation of the proposed merger; the ability of the parties to satisfy the conditions to completion of the proposed merger, including the receipt of required stockholder approval; the expected post-closing listing and trading of the combined company's shares on the Nasdaq Capital Market; anticipated benefits and synergies of the proposed merger; and the Company’s broader business strategy. These statements are based on current expectations and assumptions that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. Most of these factors are outside the Company's control and are difficult to predict. Factors that may affect actual results include, but are not limited to, the Company’s limited operating history within AI infrastructure and compute operations, project scope, engineering challenges, supply chain constraints, installation timelines, energy availability, finalization of site usage rights, regulatory considerations, SEC review timing, equipment performance, ability to raise capital required for expansion activities, changes in digital asset markets, evolving compute demand, market conditions, the risk that the closing conditions to the proposed merger are not satisfied or waived, including the failure to obtain required stockholder approval or the failure of the SEC to declare the Form S-4 effective on a timely basis or at all; uncertainties as to the timing of the consummation of the proposed merger; the risk that the proposed merger disrupts the Company's current plans, operations, or business relationships; the risk of unexpected costs, charges, or expenses resulting from the proposed merger; the risk that the anticipated benefits and synergies of the proposed merger are not realized; potential adverse reactions or changes to business relationships resulting from the announcement or completion of the proposed merger; risks related to the diversion of management's attention from ongoing business operations during the pendency of the proposed merger; risks related to the Company's ability to maintain its Nasdaq listing pending the closing of the proposed merger; and additional risks and uncertainties described in the Company's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC, which are available at www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements except as required by law.

 

 

 

No Offer or Solicitation

 

This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor a solicitation of any vote or approval with respect to the proposed merger or otherwise. No offering of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and otherwise in accordance with applicable law.

 

Additional Information and Where to Find It

 

This communication relates to the proposed merger involving AZIO AI and EVTV and may be deemed to be solicitation material in respect of the proposed merger. In connection with the proposed merger, EVTV will file relevant materials with the SEC, including the Form S-4 that will contain a proxy statement/prospectus. This communication is not a substitute for the Form S-4, the proxy statement/prospectus, or for any other document that EVTV may file with the SEC or send to EVTV's stockholders in connection with the proposed merger. BEFORE MAKING ANY VOTING DECISION, INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS OF EVTV ARE URGED TO READ THE FORM S-4, THE PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS AND OTHER DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT EVTV, THE PROPOSED MERGER AND RELATED MATTERS. Investors and security holders will be able to obtain free copies of the Form S-4, the proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed by EVTV with the SEC through the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov. Copies of the documents filed by EVTV with the SEC will also be available free of charge on EVTV's website at www.evtvusa.com/company/investor-relations/ or by contacting EVTV's investor relations department at info@evtvusa.com.

 

Participants in the Solicitation

 

EVTV, AZIO AI, and their respective directors and certain of their executive officers may be considered participants in the solicitation of proxies from EVTV's stockholders with respect to the proposed merger under the rules of the SEC. Information about the directors and executive officers of EVTV is set forth in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, which was filed with the SEC on April 13, 2026, and in subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other documents filed from time to time with the SEC. Additional information regarding the persons who may be deemed participants in the proxy solicitation and a description of their direct and indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, will also be included in the Form S-4, the proxy statement/prospectus, and other relevant materials to be filed with the SEC when they become available. You may obtain free copies of these documents as described in the "Additional Information and Where to Find It" section above.

 

Media Contact

 

Phoenix MGMT & Consulting
Press@PhoenixMGMTConsulting.com
888-228-0122

 

 

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