Road tests begin of Amazon's new electric delivery vehicle built by Rivian

Amazon and Rivian’s new van hits the road with 140 mile range and plans for 10,000 vehicles to be operational by 2022

Amazon.com Inc. has received its first batch of Rivian Automotive electric delivery vans, and has put them to work on the streets of Los Angeles as part of a test phase for the vehicle. Amazon has released the below promotional video to mark the occasion, and the company claims that there will be 10,000 zero-emissions Amazon delivery vehicles on the road as early as 2022.

Based on Rivian’s customisable skateboard platform, the vans can drive up to 150 miles (240 kilometres) on a single charge, making them perfect for last-mile delivery routes.

As a bespoke project for Amazon, it is understood that the two companies worked closely together to create a product with not only industry leading safety and design features, but with state of the art technology to assist a delivery driver’s workflow.

Amazon’s delivery van features 360 degree cameras and Alexa integration for the driver. Images: Amazon

Amazon’s custom made delivery van is based of Rivian’s modular skateboard architecture.

There are Three levels of shelving with a bulkhead door, which can easily be opened and closed for additional driver protection while on the road. The trucks feature Alexa integration for hands-free access to route information, and exterior cameras around the vehicle to give the driver a 360-degree view outside the vehicle.

Unfortunately Amazon has not revealed any details about the battery system, drivetrain or other specifications.

Speaking with CNBC, Ross Rachey, director of Amazon’s global fleet and products, stated that the company is proud of its electrification effort, with thousands of electric vehicle chargers in the pipeline for its North American and European facilities.

The rear of Amazon’s new delivery van will aid workflow for drivers

In support of The Climate Pledge, Amazon plans to be net-zero carbon by 2040 and also plans to power all operations with 100% renewable energy by 2025. The company eventually plans to have 100,000 fully-electric delivery vehicles on the road, with a target date of 2030 previously discussed. According to Bloomberg, Amazon has around 30,000 last-mile delivery vans currently in operation in the United States.