Nexio appoints new COO, promotes Horace Mast

Nexio appointed Ryan Gaul as the next COO of the company, promoting its previous COO, Horace Mast, to president and chief technology officer. The leadership change comes as Nexio advances production of its Class 7 and Class 8 propane-powered commercial vehicle lineup.

“The propane industry has been waiting for reliable vehicles that match the environmental and economic benefits of the fuel itself,” says Gaul. “Nexio’s technology represents a significant advancement in helping propane retailers operate more sustainably while reducing their total cost of ownership.”

Gaul has over two decades of experience in commercial vehicle production supply chain optimization and alternative fuel technologies. In his previous role, Gaul served as president of commercial vehicles at Workhorse Group, leading the development and production launch of electric delivery vehicles for the company. In addition to Workhorse Group, he led global manufacturing operations, including lean manufacturing implementation, supply chain restructuring and new facility launches at Gentherm Inc.

“Ryan’s decades of automotive experience, proven track record in scaling commercial vehicle operations and his deep understanding of alternative fuel technologies make him an ideal fit as we prepare for full-scale production,” says Gary Winemaster, CEO of Nexio. “His operational expertise will be instrumental as we deliver our propane-powered solutions to propane retailers and return to base fleets nationwide.”

Mast’s promotion to president and chief technology officer will allow him to further oversee both business development and continued innovation of Nexio’s propane engine technology. Under his technical leadership, the company’s 7.2-liter supercharged V8 engine has accumulated thousands of operational hours in the European market.

Nexio’s propane-powered trucks aim to provide propane retailers with operational cost savings while significantly reducing emissions. The company‘s Lufkin, Texas, facility, which will manufacture engines and assemble powertrains to support nationwide distribution, is scheduled for completion in 2026.

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