FedEx tests electric vehicle based on Nissan LEAF technology
FedEx Express is trying out a new electric delivery vehicle using technology from the world’s first mass-market all-electric car, the Nissan LEAF. The two-month trial in London aims to assess how the prototype vehicle, an all-electric version of the Nissan NV200, copes with the demands of daily deliveries in the UK capital.
FedEx is working with the manufacturer Nissan on the trial, along similar lines to a trial run with Japan Post in Japan back in July.
The prototype NV200 EV uses the same drive technology and battery as the Nissan LEAF, a family car that rolled out to the mass market for the first time at the start of the year, since when 20,000 have been sold. The LEAF has a range of up to 100 miles on a single charge, according to the manufacturer.
FedEx said the trial was part of its efforts to reduce dependence on petroleum, cut carbon emissions and eliminate tailpipe pollution.
Collaboration with Nissan in this area is part of the company’s global vehicle strategy, according to Dennis Beal, vice president of global vehicles for FedEx Express.
He said: “Through collaboration we can exponentially improve and expedite what is possible. We value the opportunity Nissan has given us to provide experienced feedback and contribute to development of the best Nissan NV200 possible.”
City streets
FedEx Express already operates 43 all-electric vehicles it is trying out in London, Paris, New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and Memphis.
The company said the NV200 would be particularly well-suited to uses in congested city streets where air quality is poor, since it has zero tailpipe emissions. The vehicle can be charged overnight conventionally, or by using a quick charger the battery can be taken up to 80% capacity in just 30 minutes.
Nissan corporate vice president Hideto Murakami said the NV200 EV vehicle would have “best in class” running costs as well as helping improve air quality in urban areas.
“FedEx Express feedback from the evaluation process will help us tailor a future battery-powered light commercial Nissan vehicle that meets customer needs,” said Murakami.
