FlEETINg SHOTS

Proxima Walk-Thru van sets new standard in driver comfort, aerodynamics and manoeuvrability

*Morgan Olson, EAVX and REE Automotive host customer evaluations for Proxima Powered by REE, a newly-designed electric walk-in step van

In a multi-faceted project EAVX, Morgan Olson and REE Automotive recently hosted live demonstrations and customer evaluations of the new Proxima Powered by REE, the fully drive-by-wire walk-in step van. The joint venture highlighted the benefits of the newly-designed EAVX and Morgan Olson body paired with REE’s fully-flat, modular P7 chassis and x-by-wire technology.

The collaboration programme aims to reduce total cost of ownership, thereby easing the transition to electric for fleets. It also helps fleets meet ever-increasing demands facing the industry, including increased consumer deliveries and continued driver shortages.

Key benefits of the Proxima body on REE’s P7 include significantly improved aerodynamics, enhanced driver ergonomics, increased driver visibility and overall safety, enhanced manoeuvrability, and integrated technologies: Nearly 60% reduction in drag when combining the Proxima body with the REE platform Drive-, steer-, and brake-by-wire functionality eliminates mechanical obstructions, reducing underfloor turbulence and ensuring a smooth ride A smart digital infrastructure by EAVX enables all connected systems throughout the vehicle to exchange information and aid the driver.

Low load floor enables fast, easy accessibility for drivers and helps reduce delivery times Ergonomics designed with drivers of all body types, with focus on every interior detail to reduce driver distraction and increase safety and comfort Significant driver visibility improvements coming from both body and chassis, boosting both driver and passerby safety REEcorners minimal turning radius combined with Proxima’s sleek, compact design ensures optimal manoeuvrability in crowded urban zones and loading docks

Fast repair times and reduced total costs of ownership due to rapid REEcorner swaps and 50-50 weight distribution of Proxima body

“These events are an incredible opportunity for leading delivery companies and fleet managers to see first-hand how Proxima paired with the REE chassis can answer the call for electrification options that are quick, efficient and offer a low total cost of ownership,” said Daniel Barel, co-founder and CEO of REE. “These live demonstrations convey the value and efficiencies REE’s x-by-wire technology can bring to fleets, as well as the power of pairing this revolutionary chassis with EAVX and Morgan Olson’s high-tech body. We’re so excited to get it on the road – and to help future-proof commercial fleets as they electrify.”

Meanwhile REE Automotive has revealed its P7-B, medium duty delivery truck, following intensive customer evaluations at its UK Engineering Centre. To date, evaluations by prospective customers including global delivery, logistics, and e-commerce companies have been positive and encouraging. The prospective customers experienced first-hand the low step-in height designed for faster delivery times as well as reduced energy consumption due to better aerodynamics and highly efficient power management system of the P7 chassis platform. Customers also experienced the agility and manoeuvrability from REE’s all-wheel drive and all-wheel steer system leading to better handling and safety.

This P7 delivery truck configuration offers increased interior space for passengers and cargo and a low step-in height while targeting a maximum speed of 120 km/h, max range of 241 km, up to 2,000 kg payload, and vehicle weight ratings (GVWR) of up to 6,350 kg. The configuration can be modified to best suit customer needs. The full x-by-wire architecture supports all-wheel steer, all-wheel drive, adaptive regenerative breaking, creep control, hill start assist, and torque vectoring as standard as well as over-the-air updates.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney – editor@fleet.ie