FedEx Express currently operates 130 all-electric vehicles (EV’s) worldwide, making the company an ideal collaborator for social innovation research and development initiative with Nissan. These two companies have been working together since 2011 to test the e-NV200 in real world operations to help shape development of the 100% electric compact delivery vehicle. Research shows the global market demand for light duty electric commercial delivery vehicles in Europe and North America will be in the region of 200,000 units in annual sales by 2016. The largest demand is believed to be in Europe where the motivation to find cheaper alternatives to oil and gas, address environmental issues along with greater governmental support and incentives is driving commercial operators to embrace the electric commercial delivery van faster than in the U.S.
FedEx Express is committed to improving the environmental impact of its global vehicle fleet and is managing its goals through a comprehensive approach to increase fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. The company has already achieved more than 80% of its goal to increase the fuel efficiency of its global vehicle fleet 20% by 2020. This collaboration with Nissan will help FedEx to develop best practices for managing its EV fleet in urban environments, while at the same time support the development of social innovation technologies for overall industry improvement in efficiency and reduced environmental impact. Russell Musgrove, MD, Global Vehicles, FedEx Express, says, “As a global fleet operator, FedEx Express is always looking for measures to improve the efficiency of its vehicles. We are delighted to collaborate with a global player like Nissan in the development of an urban all-electric delivery van.”
Nissan is in the final development stage of its second mass production social innovation zero emission vehicle: the e-NV200 compact van. EV’s are ideal for urban delivery, and this van offers a breakthrough in mobility for all types of business from entrepreneurs to parcel delivery giants like FedEx, featuring efficiency and green consciousness.
The e-NV200 will offer new features, such as quick charging, an innovative power outlet that enables the driver to plug in any electric device and work anywhere. Plus, its low running costs, a priority for many companies, offer additional energy cost savings compared to fuel cost and lower maintenance costs. With its zero emissions and no tailpipe and energy-recycling regenerative braking, this model will be particularly well suited for urban areas. Regenerative braking gives it the advantage of reclaiming energy in the start and stop of city traffic, reducing the wasteful loss of energy and increasing the efficiency of the vehicle’s driveline.
Nissan aims to be the leader in zero emissions vehicles and is engaged in efforts to expand the use of these types of social innovation transport and promote sustainable mobility. The Renault-Nissan Alliance has already concluded more than 100 partnerships related to zero emission mobility with national and local governments, and corporations, worldwide.
Article by Sangeeta Haindl of Justmeans, appearing courtesy 3BLMedia.
