eVehicle Technology
Ryder System, Inc. has revealed the commencement of its initial deployment of BrightDrop Zevo 600 electric vans at four strategically located Ryder facilities across California, Texas, and New York. This incorporation of BrightDrop’s electric vans into Ryder’s rental fleet signifies a significant milestone in the company’s continuous commitment to address the increasing demand for and acceptance of commercial electric vehicles (EVs) in the United States. Earlier this year, Ryder unveiled its intentions to integrate 4,000 BrightDrop electric vans into its fleet by 2025, with the first batch of 200 units already ordered for this year.
To introduce these new EVs into the Ryder fleet, Ryder hosted “Ride & Drive” events for customers showcasing the BrightDrop vans, as well as EV chargers from ChargePoint. Customers experienced the power, safety, and efficiency of the vehicles and learned more about the latest in Ryder’s fleet investments and strategic initiatives with EV and charging manufacturers.
The BrightDrop Zevo 600 electric vans are now available for rent at Ryder locations in Southern California (Santa Fe Springs); Northern California (Hayward); Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas (Saginaw); and New York (Long Island City).
“Working with companies such as BrightDrop keeps Ryder at the forefront of identifying and testing advanced and emerging vehicle technology, and we’re excited to incorporate these new EVs into our fleet,” says Tom Havens, president of fleet management solutions for Ryder. “Through our partnerships with technology providers and equipment manufacturers, Ryder can offer commercial fleet management solutions that drive sustainability and operational goals for our customers.”
The BrightDrop Zevo 600 electric van boasts a range of up to 250 miles and can support a payload of 1,460 to 2,450 lbs. With a cargo capacity of 615 cubic feet, BrightDrop’s electric light commercial van offers the benefits of an electric powertrain with ample cargo space.
“Electrifying commercial fleets can reduce operating emissions without sacrificing range, safety, or performance,” said Steve Hornyak, chief commercial officer for BrightDrop. “By adding BrightDrop EVs to its fleet offerings, Ryder is helping make electrification possible for companies big and small.”
BrightDrop Zevos and other EV options are available for rent through the Ryder rental fleet, which provides flexible vehicle insurance coverage, around the clock roadside assistance, single-source maintenance, geotagging for tracking and monitoring vehicle usage, and more. The charging infrastructure at Ryder facilities is enabled by ChargePoint, a leading provider of networked hardware and software solutions for charging EVs, and public charging stations offer accessible charging options, enabling longer trips and greater flexibility.
Earlier this year, Ryder unveiled RyderElectric+™ as its new turnkey EV fleet solution. The new offering navigates the EV landscape for customers and provides electrification advisors, leased vehicles, charging, telematics, and maintenance all for one price.
“Ryder’s aim is to continue to evaluate and provide advanced vehicle technology solutions to help customers seamlessly integrate EVs into their business,” says Carlo Rodriguez, managing director for electric vehicles for Ryder.
SOURCE: Ryder
