Renault reveals new multimodal last mile e-mobility vehicle
Renault Trucks has revealed what it says is an industry-first multimodal last mile e-mobility vehicle, the E-Tech Master OptiModale.
Designed and commissioned by Renault Trucks to help reduce congestion and improve air quality in urban areas, the unique E-Tech Master OptiModale combines three types of electric transportation in one vehicle: a 3.5 tonne LWB L3H1 E-Tech Master van with Low Loader Luton body by Horton Commercials; a Bullitt electric Cargo bike; and parcel-carrying drone from Uvatek.
Suitable for a wide range of logistics operations as well as medical and military applications, the E-Tech OptiModale is designed to carry and deliver parcels of various sizes. Its specially commissioned Low Loader Luton body holds the parcel deliveries and acts as the ‘Mothership’ for the electric cargo bike and drone helipad system.
Grahame Neagus, head of LCV at Renault Trucks UK & Irelands, said: “The all-new Renault Trucks E-Tech Master OptiModale addresses the pressing need to improve air quality and pollution in our cities while improving accessibility and productivity for operators.
“By harnessing multiple modes of electric transport, this is an all-in-one sustainable solution that is set to transform the rapidly growing parcel market, and can be replicated anywhere in the world.
“The E-Tech Master OptiModale is two-person operation, offering the flexibility of delivering larger parcels by van, whilst the second team member takes the e-Cargo bike for deliveries in the city. Additionally, the drone provides rapid deployment for urgent situations, such as delivering vital drugs or supplies to challenging or inaccessible locations.”
Based on a Renault Trucks E-Tech Master Platform Cab chassis with the R75 electric motor and a 33kWh battery, (also available with the new 52kWh battery for even greater range), the 3.5tonne LWB L3H1 platform cab is ideal for combining both range and payload for this type of operation.
Offering a typical range of around 130km before requiring charge, this vehicle is suitable for back-to-base operations that are located on the edge of major conurbations where entering the inner town or city requires zero emission vehicles.
A specially commissioned 4,100mm Low Loader Luton body by Horton Commercials is fully equipped for parcel delivery with folding shelving, with electric cargo bike store to the nearside complete with bike lift, and heli-drone pad system.
The latest generation Bullitt electric Cargo bike, capable of carrying up to 100kgs of smaller parcels. Finished in a Renault Trucks Red frame with corresponding white cargo box, the Bullitt eCargo bike has the latest Shimano e-system that can provide up to 110km of power assist for the cyclist and once back on board the E-Tech Master OptiModale, the battery can be removed and 80 per cent charged within two hours, according to Renault Trucks.
Above the eCargo bike location is the retractable heli-drone pad from which the latest generation parcel carrying drone from Uvatek can be launched, carrying high value loads up to 2kg in weight. Although flying drones is currently restricted in certain areas, its speed and accuracy is made for urgent time sensitive deliveries, for example over countryside or across water.
The Renault Trucks E-Tech OptiModale is available to order now.
