Made in Chatsworth, Shipped to Aruba: Self-powered Street Cars

The Southland is home to countless businesses that export products internationally, but Chatsworth is home to the only company that ships a unique green product to Aruba: self-powered trolleys.

Made by TIG/m Modern Street Railways, the streetcars maintain a classic design but work without overhead power lines.

They utilize the "most current battery, battery/capacitor, and hybrid/electric technology available," according to the company's website.

The first trolley was shipped in Dec. 2012 and more are on their way thanks to a $3 million tap care of Aruba's government in a push to make the Caribbean Sea island more sustainable.

"TIG/m represents the best Los Angeles and America has to offer: they’re a homegrown small business that is innovative, forward-looking, and green,” said Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa in a press release. “I am proud that my office has been able to help TIG/m through the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) Business Center, setting a perfect example that Los Angeles companies can export their innovative ideas around the world.”

To learn more about TIG/m, click here.