The shift towards electrification in the automotive world is rapidly gaining momentum, extending its reach far beyond passenger cars to encompass the commercial vehicle sector. Electric vans (Ev Vans) are emerging as a game-changer for businesses of all sizes. With daily delivery routes often falling well within the capabilities of today’s battery technology, fleet operators and e-commerce giants are increasingly adopting ev vans to enhance efficiency and sustainability. Here’s a look at some of the leading ev vans that are driving this revolution.
Tesla Robovan: The Futuristic and Autonomous EV Van
Alt text: Sleek Tesla Robovan electric van with futuristic design, highlighting its aerodynamic profile and potential for autonomous driving.
Tesla’s entry into the ev vans market, the Robovan, is nothing short of revolutionary. This autonomous electric van boasts a strikingly futuristic design, reminiscent of the art deco trains of the 1920s and 30s. Its streamlined exterior eliminates traditional windshields, opting instead for small glass panels at the front and rear that may incorporate electrochromic technology, allowing for adjustable transparency.
The Tesla Robovan is designed for full autonomy and features accessible trunks at both ends, maximizing cargo and passenger flexibility. Elon Musk hinted at a potential solar power canopy add-on, which could significantly expand the roof area and enhance the vehicle’s energy efficiency.
Inside, the Robovan prioritizes comfort and technology. The lounge-like interior includes comfortable seating, ambient lighting, a flat floor, and dual TV-sized screens positioned at the front and back. With a capacity to accommodate up to 20 passengers, Tesla is also considering a commercial goods transport version. The company projects incredibly low operating costs for the passenger version, estimating travel expenses at just 5-10 cents per mile, making it a highly economical ev van option.
While the Tesla Robovan release date remains unconfirmed, industry experts speculate a potential launch around 2028, marking a significant leap in ev van technology and design.
USPS Electric Mail Truck: Oshkosh NGDV for a Modern Postal Service
Alt text: Quirky design of the Oshkosh USPS Next Generation Delivery Vehicle (NGDV) electric mail truck, emphasizing its functionality and modern features for postal service.
The United States Postal Service (USPS) is embracing electrification with the Oshkosh Next Generation Delivery Vehicle (NGDV). Developed by Oshkosh Defense, this ev van prioritizes both eco-friendliness and operational efficiency for mail carriers. While its design may differ from the sleek aesthetics of newcomers like BrightDrop and Rivian, the Oshkosh NGDV focuses on practicality and utility.
The NGDV is packed with features designed to enhance safety and ease of use for delivery operations. These include front and rear parking sensors, a 360-degree camera system, blind spot warning, an automatic electronic parking brake, and airbags. Security is addressed with a surveillance camera, while driver comfort is ensured through AC and a walk-in cargo area with cab access, critical for daily delivery routes.
The Oshkosh NGDV is planned in both internal combustion engine (ICE) and all-electric variants. While specific performance details are still pending, production of the ICE variant began in Spartanburg, South Carolina, with deliveries to USPS commencing in May 2024.
USPS has committed to procuring at least 60,000 NGDV units, with a minimum of 45,000 being electric models, by 2028. This substantial order underscores the growing demand for reliable ev vans in large-scale fleet operations.
Ford E-Transit: America’s Best-Selling EV Van with Enhanced Range
Alt text: Ford E-Transit electric van, highlighting its practical design and status as the best-selling ev van in the United States, emphasizing its appeal to businesses.
Ford’s E-Transit has rapidly become a leader in the ev vans market. Launched in February 2022 from Ford’s Kansas City Assembly Plant, the E-Transit quickly gained popularity, becoming the best-selling electric van in the U.S. in 2022 and further increasing sales by 18% in 2023, solidifying its market dominance for the second year running. Starting at USD 45,995 (excluding destination fees), the E-Transit offers a competitive price point for businesses transitioning to electric fleets.
Recognizing range as a critical factor for ev van adoption, Ford announced plans to enhance the E-Transit’s range. By mid-2025, the E-Transit is expected to incorporate new battery cells manufactured at BlueOval SK’s Plant 1 in Glendale, Kentucky. This upgrade will not only improve range but also contribute to significant cost reductions in battery production.
Currently, the Ford E-Transit is available in six configurations, offering various roof heights and lengths, as well as Cargo Van, Chassis Cab, and Cutaway versions. It utilizes an 89 kWh lithium-ion battery and a single motor producing 198 kW (266 hp) and 317 lb.-ft. of torque, providing a range of 159 miles in the low-roof cargo van configuration. The planned range improvement will further solidify the E-Transit’s position as a top contender in the ev vans market.
All-New Ford Electric Van: Expanding the EV Van Lineup
Ford’s commitment to the ev vans segment extends beyond the E-Transit. Announced in August 2024, Ford is set to produce an entirely new electric van at its Ohio Assembly Plant starting in 2026. While initial speculation suggested this might be a second-generation E-Transit, the timeline, coupled with the planned E-Transit range upgrade in 2025, indicates a different strategy.
This new ev van is expected to target a distinct market segment, broadening Ford’s offerings and catering to diverse commercial needs. This strategic move demonstrates Ford’s ambition to capture a larger share of the rapidly growing ev vans market by offering multiple models tailored to specific business applications.
Rivian EDV 900: Amazon’s Choice and Beyond in Electric Delivery
Rivian has made a significant impact on the ev vans landscape with its Electric Delivery Van (EDV) series. Built upon Rivian’s robust R1 skateboard chassis, the EDV prioritizes cost-effectiveness through strategic use of steel in its construction. The Rivian EDV comes in various sizes, including the EDV 500, EDV 700, and EDV 900, differentiated by their respective cargo capacities.
Alt text: Rivian EDV 700 electric delivery van used by Amazon, showcasing its modern design and role in Amazon’s sustainable delivery fleet.
Amazon has been a key partner for Rivian, deploying over 15,000 Rivian EDVs in its delivery operations across more than 1,800 cities in the U.S. since the summer of 2022. These ev vans have already facilitated the delivery of over 260 million packages, highlighting their reliability and efficiency in real-world delivery scenarios. Amazon’s initial order of 100,000 EDVs from Rivian indicates a long-term commitment to electric delivery solutions.
Rivian has also expanded its market reach by modifying its agreement with Amazon, allowing the company to sell commercial vans to other customers. This strategic shift opens up new opportunities for Rivian to become a major player in the broader ev vans market.
Rivian EDV models offer various specifications to meet diverse business needs:
| AspectSpecification | EDV 500 | EDV 700 | EDV 900 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length | 248 in. | 277 in. | 321 in. |
| Wheelbase | 157 in. | 187 in. | 205 in. |
| Cargo Space | 500 cu. ft. | 660 cu. ft. | 840 cu. ft. |
| GVWR | 9,350 lbs. | 9,350 lbs. | 14,000 lbs. |
| Range | Up to 150 miles | Up to 150 miles | Up to 120 miles |
Rivian is also incorporating LFP (lithium iron phosphate) battery packs into the EDV, which helps to reduce production costs and potentially improve battery supply chain stability, further enhancing the appeal of these ev vans.
Rivian Commercial Van: Extending EV Delivery to More Businesses
Following the revised agreement with Amazon, Rivian introduced the Commercial Van, a modified version of the EDV available to a wider range of commercial customers. This ev van retains key features of the EDV while catering to broader business requirements.
Alt text: Rivian Commercial Van, customized for AT&T, demonstrating its adaptability for various commercial applications beyond delivery services.
The Rivian Commercial Van is offered in 500 and 700 versions, mirroring the Amazon EDV models. It comes equipped with LED headlights, a curbside sliding door, a 15.6-inch central touchscreen, wireless charging pads, a 360-degree camera system, and a suite of safety and driver-assistance features.
The Rivian Delivery 500 Commercial Van offers a GVWR of 9,350 lbs. and a payload capacity of 2,734 lbs., with an estimated range of 161 miles. The Rivian Delivery 700 Commercial Van, with a GVWR of 9,500 lbs., provides a larger cargo area but a slightly lower payload capacity of 2,513 lbs. and an estimated range of 153 miles.
| Aspect | Rivian Delivery 500 Commercial Van Specification | Rivian Delivery 700 Commercial Van Specification |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 248.5 in. | 278 in. |
| Width (incl. mirrors) | 96.4 in. | 103.5 in. |
| Height | 114.7 in. | 114.8 in. |
| Wheelbase | 157.5 in. | 187 in. |
| Ground Clearance | 6.9 in. | 6.9 in. |
| GVWR | 9,350 lbs. | 9,500 lbs. |
| Payload Capacity | 2,734 lbs. | 2,513. |
| Drivetrain Layout | FWD | FWD |
| Rivian-est. Range | 161 mi | 153 mi |
Priced at USD 83,000 for the 500 version and USD 87,000 for the 700 version, the Rivian Commercial Van models are eligible for federal tax credits, making them attractive ev van options for businesses looking for both performance and value.
Chevrolet Brightdrop 400: Compact EV Van for Agile Deliveries
Chevrolet’s Brightdrop brand is making waves in the ev vans sector with its innovative and versatile vehicles. Originally conceived within GM’s Innovation Lab, Brightdrop has evolved into a key part of Chevrolet’s commercial EV strategy. The Chevrolet Brightdrop 400 (previously known as BrightDrop EV410 or Brightdrop Zevo 400) is designed for smaller, more frequent deliveries, making it ideal for urban environments and businesses requiring agile operations.
Alt text: Chevrolet Brightdrop Zevo 400 electric van, emphasizing its compact size and suitability for urban deliveries and frequent stops.
The Brightdrop 400 offers a cargo area of 412.1 cu. ft. with a length of 238.6 inches and a wheelbase of 153.1 inches. It boasts a maximum payload capacity of up to 3,580 lbs. and a GVWR of up to 11,000 lbs. Built on a dedicated EV platform utilizing GM’s Ultium battery and drive technology, the Brightdrop 400 delivers a range of 159 miles in both FWD and AWD variants. An optional larger battery pack in the AWD variant extends the range up to 272 miles.
Production of the Chevrolet Brightdrop 400 takes place at GM’s CAMI Assembly Plant in Ingersoll, Ontario, alongside the larger Brightdrop 600. GM aims to achieve an annual production capacity of over 50,000 EVs at this plant by 2025, highlighting the growing production scale for Brightdrop ev vans. The Zevo 400 is particularly well-suited for applications like grocery delivery and other short-run delivery services.
Mercedes-Benz Premium EV Vans: Luxury and Performance in Electric Commercial Vehicles
Mercedes-Benz Vans is entering the ev vans market with a focus on premium commercial vehicles in the mid-size and large segments. These new electric Mercedes vans will be built on the dedicated VAN.EA-C platform, specifically designed for electric commercial vehicles. This platform ensures superior spaciousness and efficiency compared to ev vans based on modified ICE platforms.
Alt text: Mercedes-Benz VAN.EA-C platform for electric commercial vans, highlighting the brand’s commitment to dedicated EV architecture for enhanced performance and space.
Running the MB.OS vehicle software, these ev vans will be highly digital and support SAE Level 2 autonomous driving from launch, with plans to offer SAE Level 4 autonomy by 2030. Mercedes-Benz is targeting courier, express, and parcel delivery services, hospitals, roadside assistance, and other service providers with these premium ev vans.
The first electric Mercedes premium van for commercial use is expected to launch in 2025, promising to bring Mercedes-Benz’s renowned luxury and performance to the ev vans market.
Kia PV5 and PV7: Purpose-Built EV Vans for Diverse Business Needs
Kia is also making a strong push into the ev vans sector with its Purpose-Built Vehicle (PBV) lineup, starting with the Kia PV5. Designed from the ground up as an electric vehicle, the PV5 is a mid-size PBV targeting urban passenger mobility and cargo transportation. Scheduled for release in mid-2025, the PV5 will be available in Basic (passenger), Van (delivery), High Roof (delivery), and Chassis Cab versions, offering versatile configurations for various business applications.
Alt text: Kia PV5 Concept electric van, showcasing its modern and angular design with distinctive DRLs, hinting at its futuristic and functional appeal.
The Kia PV5 features a modern exterior design with angular vertical DRLs and a minimalist interior focused on functionality and ease of use. It will offer OTA (Over the Air) and FoD (Feature on Demand) services, keeping the vehicle updated and customizable. Built on Hyundai Motor Group’s ‘eS’ platform, part of the Integrated Modular Architecture (IMA) system, the PV5 promises a range of up to 373 miles on a single charge for the SWB version.
Following the PV5, Kia will introduce the PV7, a large cargo delivery and multi van designed for even greater versatility. The PV7 will cater to large logistics companies, shuttle services, mobile businesses, and more, offering a spacious and adaptable interior.
Kia is establishing a dedicated PBV factory in South Korea and plans to produce 150,000 PBVs in the first full year of production, demonstrating a significant commitment to the ev vans market. A Robo-Taxi version of the PV5 with Level 4 autonomous driving is also planned, further expanding Kia’s ev van offerings.
Alt text: Kia PV7 concept electric van, highlighting its larger size and potential for various commercial applications including cargo delivery and passenger transport.
Blue Arc Delivery Van: Robust and Scalable EV Van Solutions
Blue Arc, an EV brand from The Shyft Group, offers robust walk-in delivery ev vans designed for high-frequency, last-mile delivery fleets. The Blue Arc delivery van provides a cargo space of 635-800 cubic feet and a payload capacity of up to 5,000 lbs. With battery capacities ranging from 160-240 kWh and an 800V system, it offers a range of at least 150 miles, with certain configurations achieving up to 225 miles in city driving conditions. An optional integrated solar roof package adds 1-2 kW of solar power, enhancing energy efficiency.
Alt text: Blue Arc electric delivery van, rear view, showcasing its large cargo capacity and optional solar roof, emphasizing its efficiency and practicality for delivery fleets.
Key features of the Blue Arc ev van include a 360-degree camera system, HD camera displays, automated entry, lane departure warnings, and parking sensors, prioritizing safety and driver assistance. The scalable chassis design (Class 3-5) offers lengths from 12 to 22 feet, providing flexibility for various operational needs.
While initial production timelines faced delays, deliveries of Blue Arc ev vans are now expected to begin in late 2024, with significant pre-orders from companies like Randy Marion Automotive Group and FedEx, demonstrating strong market interest in these capable ev vans.
Conclusion:
The ev vans market is experiencing rapid innovation and growth, with a diverse range of models emerging to meet the evolving needs of commercial transportation. From futuristic designs like the Tesla Robovan to practical and robust options like the Ford E-Transit, Rivian EDV, Chevrolet Brightdrop, Mercedes-Benz premium vans, Kia PBVs, and Blue Arc delivery vans, businesses have an increasing number of choices for transitioning to electric fleets. As battery technology advances and charging infrastructure expands, ev vans are poised to become the dominant force in commercial delivery and transportation, offering both environmental and economic benefits. For businesses looking to maintain and repair these advanced ev vans, understanding their unique software and electronic systems is crucial, highlighting the growing importance of specialized automotive expertise in the electric vehicle era.
