Clarios, OPTIMA Batteries and Petersen Automotive Museum Partner to Raise Thousands for First Responders and California Fire Relief
In the wake of the devastating Southern California fires, Clarios partnered with the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles to host a charity Cruise-In on January 26th to support first responders and those affected by the disaster. The event, held in partnership with Clarios and OPTIMA Batteries – the museum’s official battery partner – raised more than $140,000 to benefit the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, and the LAPD West Bureau. Ferrari Beverly Hills, Avants, Tesla and the Responsible Battery Coalition also supported the event with incredible cars and donations, while Waymo donated 1,000 free rides to and from the event.
Rallying Support for First Responders
“The devastation caused by the fires is heartbreaking, but we have been inspired by the dedication of first responders and the resiliency of our community,” said Terry L. Karges, Executive Director of the Petersen Automotive Museum. “We are proud to team up with OPTIMA Batteries, Clarios, and our incredible car community to support the ongoing recovery efforts.”
Beyond raising funds, the Cruise-In served as a hub for additional support initiatives, offering attendees the opportunity to make a direct impact. The American Red Cross hosted an information booth and a blood donation center, and a partner organization collected essential items to distribute to families affected by the fires.
Commitment to Community
Clarios and OPTIMA Batteries are dedicated to supporting communities in times of need. Adam Muellerweiss, Chief Sustainability Officer at Clarios, emphasized this commitment: “We’re committed to showing up for communities in need, and the Petersen Automotive Museum is part of our extended community. It’s our privilege to stand with the heroic LA County first responders and support them during these challenging times.”
A Lasting Partnership Built on Innovation and Community
The bond between Clarios, OPTIMA Batteries, and the Petersen Automotive Museum extends far beyond this one event. Building on a century of powering automotive progress, Clarios and OPTIMA are proud to stand alongside the Petersen in showcasing the future of mobility—while also giving back to communities in need. To learn more about how this partnership is driving both innovation and meaningful impact, read our article, Clarios, OPTIMA & the Petersen Automotive Museum: A Partnership Showcasing the Future of Automotive Innovation. By uniting cutting-edge technology, a passion for automotive history, and a shared commitment to serving others, Clarios, OPTIMA Batteries, and the Petersen Automotive Museum continue to demonstrate what’s possible when industry leadership meets community spirit.
