Arrival, the UK-based EV startup, unveiled specs, images and video of the next phase in the development of its electric van which will be starting public road trials with key customers this summer.
Arrival believes it has set a new standard for commercial vehicles by introducing a fully electric van that excels across both payload (1975kg) and cargo volume (2.4m3 per metre in length) at a price comparable with fossil fuel vehicles, and with a substantially lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).
Arrival’s Van has been developed alongside drivers and operators to maximise functionality for real world use, with the deployment of advanced in-house technologies throughout the vehicle to provide customers with an elevated connected experience and operators with the data and fleet management tools they need to optimize the running of a fleet.
Arrival’s in-house components are enabled by Arrival’s proprietary software which allows real-time health monitoring and predictive maintenance to reduce downtime. The components are also upgradeable over time in both hardware and software, ensuring the vehicle stays up to date with the latest technology and extending its use.
The flexibility provided by the modular battery ranging from 44kWh to 133kWh, means that operators can choose the battery configuration that is best suited for their range requirements, further reducing costs and increasing efficiency. Depending on the battery capacity range will vary 180 km (112 miles) to 340 km (211 miles).
The lightweight aluminum frame and proprietary composite body panels significantly decrease the weight of the vehicle for greater range efficiency, reduce the frequency and cost of repairs as well as extend the van’s life expectancy.
Arrival’s Van will be used day in day out by drivers and is therefore designed to bring a new level of comfort to the commercial market, one usually found in luxury passenger vehicles – including heated seating, independent front and rear suspension, full cabin climate control and a 15.6” touch-screen interface to communicate data being collected from the vehicle directly to the driver in an optimal fashion. In addition, Arrival vehicles are designed to maximise the safety and well being of drivers and the public on our roads and streets using advanced technologies. ADAS features, such as digital e-mirrors, a 360-degree surround view, Advanced Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Monitoring, Traffic Sign Recognition and Lane Keep Assist are all available across the range of Arrival Van variants, from 5.1m to 6.5m in length, offering an optimised product for any business or consumer.
“We believe that the rapid growth of e-commerce has led to a much higher demand for light commercial transport in cities, increasing both congestion and air pollution.” said Avinash Ruguboor, President and Chief Strategy Officer of Arrival. “We are in the midst of an important market transition as more and more fleet managers adopt cleaner and more sustainable methods and cities adopt stricter air quality measures, we are looking to accelerate that transition with a best-in-class solution that has clear benefits, at a purchase price and TCO that makes the transition the best possible commercial decision too.”
The Arrival Van is expected to start full production in Q3 2022.
Arrival expects commercial vehicle fleets to migrate to EVs even more quickly than the automotive retail segments because commercial fleets understand their range requirements, use in-depot charging and are focused on cost. The Arrival Van is positioned to capitalise on this opportunity with its outstanding TCO and robust design.
