As companies around the world look to find ways to make logistics more sustainable, Renault has come up with a unique solution for urban deliveries, the multimodal last mile E-Tech Master OptiModale. The first-of-its-kind multimodal e-mobility concept combines three electric transport options in one vehicle with the goal of reducing congestion on roads and improving air quality by eliminating emissions. The 3.5-tonne (3.85-U.S.-ton) LWB L3H1 E-Tech Master van from Renault with Low Loader Luton body by Horton Commercials stows an eBullitt electric cargo bike and a parcel-carrying drone from UVATEK. The vehicle was designed for work in areas with emission requirements; for example, operations located at the edge of conurbations that deliver to inner town or city areas with zero-emission zones.
“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,” says Renault Trucks UK & Ireland Head of LCV, Grahame Neagus. “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.”
About The E-Tech Master OptiModale
The OptiModale is based on Renault’s E-Tech Master Platform Cab chassis with the 3.5-t LWB L3H1 platform cab. It is powered by the R75 electric motor and a 33-kilowatt-hour battery for a range of 130 kilometres (80 miles) between charges. A 52-kWh battery is also available for an increased range. The 4,100-millimetre (161-inch) Low Loader Luton body by Horton Commercials was ordered with folding shelving and an electric cargo bike store to the nearside with a bike lift and heli-drone pad system.
The eBullitt electric cargo bike can carry up to 100 kilograms (220 pounds) of small parcels and has a Renault Trucks red frame and a white cargo box. The Shimano e-system provides up to 50 km (31 mi) of power assist and, when stowed on the E-Tech Master OptiModale, the battery can be removed for charging and can reach 50% in an hour, 80% in two hours, and 100% in four hours.
The retractable heli-drone pad is located above the eCargo bike storage. The UVATEK drone can carry up to 2 kg (4.4 lbs) in weight. The company notes that while flying drones is restricted in certain areas, it offers an ideal delivery system for moving time-sensitive deliveries into hard-to-access areas due to its speed and accuracy.
“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,” says Neagus. “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 2 kg all the way up to 44 tonne.”
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Source: Renault Trucks