Flexis Enters the Electric Van Market
While the European car market has embraced electrification, light commercial vehicles (LCVs) have lagged behind. A new venture, Flexis, aims to change this by offering all-electric vans designed specifically for large delivery fleets. With backing from major players like Renault Group, Volvo Group, and shipping company CMA CGM, Flexis hopes to overcome some of the hurdles that have plagued other electric vehicle (EV) startups.
The Growing Demand for Electric LCVs
In the UK, for example, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) accounted for 19.6% of all sales in 2024, yet only 5.8% of LCVs under 3.5 tons were electric. Flexis is addressing this disparity by providing a combination of EV design innovation and connected services.
Flexis: A Different Approach
Unlike many existing electric vans that are modified versions of internal combustion models, Flexis is starting with a clean sheet. Their vans are built on a “skateboard” platform, with the motor between the rear wheels and the batteries under the floor, eliminating the need for a motor between the front wheels, which allows for a tighter turning circle. This design also enhances structural rigidity, boosting cargo capacity.
Flexis will initially offer three van models, including a panel van, a Luton-style cargo van and a step-in van with a sliding side panel and rolling shutter at the back.
Advanced Features and Technology
The Flexis platform boasts several cutting-edge features, including an 800V architecture for rapid charging, capable of replenishing to 80% in just 20 minutes. The vans will offer two battery capacities, offering ranges of 320km (200 miles) and 450km (281 miles). Flexis is planning to use NMC and LFP battery chemistries. The batteries will also be sourced from European suppliers.
Connected and Data-Driven
Flexis emphasizes the connected nature of the vehicles. The vans will be Software Defined Vehicles (SDVs) and can receive Over-the-Air (OTA) updates. This connectivity allows for efficient fleet management, including planned maintenance based on usage, breakdown prediction, and route optimization via FlexE Connect. Flexis’ platform is open and can integrate with other fleet management systems.
Strong Backing and Production
Flexis isn’t a standalone startup, but a joint venture backed by significant resources, including €120 million ($125 million) from CMA CGM, and €300 million ($312 million) each from Renault and Volvo. Manufacturing will take place at Renault’s Sandouville plant in France, utilizing the same production lines as existing Renault models. Production is expected to begin in 2026, with letters of intent already secured from ten companies, representing approximately 15,000 vehicles.
Market Strategy
Initial markets will be the UK, Germany and France, with expansion planned across Europe. The vans will be sold under the Flexis brand, while the vehicles are likely to be sold through Renault and possibly Volvo as well. Flexis plans to offer competitive pricing with reduced energy and maintenance costs, and may include a “pay per use” model. The venture aims to be competitive by undercutting vehicles with combustion engines and reducing maintenance and energy expenditures.
While the US market isn’t currently in Flexis’s plans, Flexis has a strong foundation and the investment needed to compete in the electric van market. The company anticipates seeing its vehicles delivering goods on European streets by the end of 2026.
