Amazon has revealed its first custom electric delivery vehicle designed and built in partnership with EV startup Rivian. This is one of three different models that Amazon has invested in and completely customized with Rivian to improve the driver experience and optimize safety. Amazon ordered a total of 100,000 vehicles from Rivian by 2030, and the first 10,000 of them will be on the road as early as 2022.
Developed to “far surpass any other
delivery vehicle”, Amazon’s electric van is packed with safety, navigation and
design features. From a safety perspective, highlights include state-of-the-art
sensor detection, highway and traffic assist technology, and a 360-degree
exterior camera system.
In addition, the electric delivery vehicle
has a large windshield for enhanced driver visibility, a strengthened door on
the driver’s side for additional protection, and bright taillights surrounding
the rear of the vehicle to make braking easily noticeable to drivers following
from behind.
The driver’s cabin benefits from Alexa
integration for hands-free access to route information and the latest weather
updates, as well as a flat floor for easy movement. The driver can access the
cargo area through a bulkhead door which can easily be opened and closed for
additional driver protection while on the road. The rear compartment features
three levels of shelving for the parcels.
Amazon says that before investing in
Rivian, it was unable to find electric options that met the needs of its drivers
and delivery operations. The partnership helped the e-commerce giant accelerate
the path to an electric delivery vehicle that fit its needs. According to
Rachey, the two companies invented a solution that “will reset industry
expectations for electric delivery vehicle capabilities.”
Amazon’s new electric delivery van will
debut on U.S. roads next year.
