Workhorse Group Inc., on Tuesday said it is moving forward on agreements to test and operate its new N-Gen electric van in several cities across the U.S.
The electric N-Gen van features a lightweight composite body and an anticipated range of 100 miles on a single charge. An optional gasoline range extender adds an additional 75 miles. In early on-road testing, Workhorse says the N-Gen has demonstrated a 60-65 MPGe efficiency.
“The new N-Gen platform represents a new day for last-mile delivery,” says Workhorse CEO Stephen Burns.
The N-Gen’s ultra-low, single-step-up 19-inch floor and 105-inch roof height helps maximize cargo space. Standard van options include all-wheel drive, automatic braking and lane centering, and a best-in-class 26-foot turning radius.
Additional configurations, including 700-cubic-foot and 1,000-cubic-foot models, are expected late next year.
The van platform will also feature an optional integrated HorseFly Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Package Delivery System. The carbon-fiber, high-efficiency octocopter drone launches from the roof of a delivery van and delivers a package to its destination within the driver’s line of sight. Workhorse says the patent-pending truck and drone system is compliant with all current FAA regulations and can carry a package weighing up to 10 pounds with a cost of approximately $.03 per mile.
In February, Workhorse successfully completed drone delivery testing with the U.S. Postal Service. Built-in Workhorse Metron telematics system tracks in real time all van and drone parameters to optimize performance and efficiency.
In May, Workhorse and Ryder announced a partnership naming Ryder the primary distributor and provider of service and support for Workhorse light and medium duty range-extended electric vehicles in North America.