Flexis, a new player in the European electric commercial vehicle market, has unveiled three all-electric vans designed to revolutionize urban logistics. The venture is backed by industry heavyweights Renault Group, Volvo Group, and French shipping giant CMA CGM, giving it a solid foundation to compete in the growing electric van market.
Key Features of Flexis Electric Vans
The three vans – Step-In, Panel Van, and Cargo Van – are built on a bespoke 800-volt electrical architecture, enabling fast charging to 80% in just 20 minutes. This ‘skateboard’ EV platform allows for flexible body configurations, similar to Rivian’s approach. A single front-mounted electric motor produces 197 horsepower.
Software and Fleet Management
The vehicles feature a Software Defined Vehicle (SDV) platform based on Google’s Android operating system, offering Google Cloud connectivity and comprehensive fleet management options. This setup is particularly appealing for business-to-business (B2B) customers, who will be the primary target market.
Van Lineup Details
- Step-In Model: Similar footprint to the Ford Transit Connect but with a taller 6.2-foot cabin height, featuring front sliding doors and a rear shutter door – a first in Europe.
- Panel Van: Electric equivalent of the Ford Transit Custom, with an overall height of 6.2 feet, suitable for underground city parking and garages.
- Cargo Van: Based on the Step-In platform but with a separate cargo area at the rear, adapted for urban last-mile delivery services with customizable cargo box sizes.
Market Potential and Production
Flexis has already secured commitments from major logistics companies like Colis Prive, Hived, and DB Schenker, estimating potential demand of up to 15,000 vehicles over three years. Production will take place at Renault Group’s Sandouville plant in France, with deliveries scheduled to begin next year.
The Flexis electric vans will be sold under a B2B model, while Renault Group and Renault Trucks will also offer them under their own brands in their respective sales networks. This strategic approach positions Flexis to capitalize on the growing demand for electric commercial vehicles in Europe, competing with other major players like Kia, which has also announced plans to enter the European electric van market.
