RENAULT’S NEW LAST MILE TECHNOLOGY
Renault Trucks has launched a last mile e-mobility concept, the Renault Trucks E-Tech Master OptiModale, “for cleaner, greener and more accessible urban deliveries”.
Designed and commissioned by Renault Trucks to help reduce congestion and improve air quality in urban areas, the E-Tech Master OptiModale combines three types of electric transport in one vehicle: a 3.5 tonne LWB L3H1 E-Tech Master van, a Low Loader Luton body by Horton Commercials, and an E-Bullitt electric Cargo bike; and parcel-carrying drone from Uvatek.
It is designed to carry and deliver parcels and suits many logistics operations as well as medical applications. The Luton body holds the parcels and acts as the ‘mothership’ for the E-Cargo bike and drone.
Grahame Neagus, head of LCV, Renault Trucks UK & Ireland, says: “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 a two-person operation, offering the flexibility of delivering larger parcels by van, whilst the second team member takes the eBullitt cargo bike for last mile deliveries where congestion is at its worst.
“Additionally, the drone provides rapid deployment for urgent situations, such as delivering vital drugs or supplies to challenging or inaccessible locations. Optimodale delivers an innovative ‘last mile’ solution and is a clear illustration of the breadth and depth of our thinking, providing Renault Trucks logistics customers with a sustainable solution from 2kg all the way up to 44 tonne.”
Specification
Based on a Renault Trucks E-Tech Master platform cab chassis with the R75 electric motor and a 33kWh battery, (also available with a 52kWh battery for greater range), the van combes range and payload for this type of operation, Renault says. “Offering a typical range of around 80 miles before requiring charge, this vehicle is ideal 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”, Renault says.A 4100mm Low Loader Luton body by Horton Commercials is equipped for parcel delivery with folding shelving, electric cargo bike store to the nearside with bike lift, and heli-drone pad system.
The latest generation E-Bullitt electric cargo bike, capable of carrying up to 100kgs of smaller parcels, is finished in a Renault Trucks Red frame with corresponding white cargo box. It is has a Shimano e-system that can provide up to 50km of power assist for the cyclist and once back on board, the battery can be removed and charged within 1 hour to 50%, 2 hours to 80% and 4 hours 100%.
Above the E-Cargo bike location is the retractable heli-drone pad from which the parcel carrying drone from Uvatek is launched, carrying loads up to 2kgs in weight. Although flying drones is currently restricted in certain areas, its speed and accuracy is ideal for urgent time sensitive deliveries, for example, over countryside or across water.
