Workhorse Group Inc., an American automotive technology company announced that the Workhorse NGEN-1000, a lightweight electric delivery vehicle, has entered initial production. The NGEN-1000's curb weight is 4,000 lbs – less than one-half of what a traditional diesel step-van weighs – while carrying the same cubic footage of storage, 1,000 cubic feet. Management believes this weight reduction, coupled with the 100-mile range, will have cost-savings implications that will make the EV alternative to traditional fleet delivery vehicles all the more appealing. The NGEN will be available in four cargo sizes for customers: 250, 450, 700 and 1,000 cubic feet.
"For as long as I can remember, we've been discussing what the future of delivery looks like and what role electric vehicles will play in that," said Stephen S. Burns, CEO of Workhorse. "We are proud to say – the future is here. With an off-the-lot cost on par with traditional fuel delivery vehicles, and substantial savings from there, we believe the NGEN will forever change the business of delivery as we know it."
The lightweight design allows for 100-mile range, with a smaller battery pack than previous designs, thereby reducing the cost of the vehicle significantly. The smaller battery pack also reduces the cost of the charging infrastructure for the customer.
The NGEN-1000 is the first in the NGEN series to go into production at Workhorse's Midwest plant, and features a design with a grill-less front end.
Features include:
- Low floor with 7.25" ground clearance designed to make loading and unloading easier, and entry and egress safer
- Hub motors in front provide tighter turning radius than comparable vehicles
- All-Wheel drive provides surefooted handling in inclement weather conditions
- Composite construction, designed to enable a lightweight and rust-free body
- 6,000 lb carrying capacity
- Ergonomic driving position fits drivers from 5'2" to 6'5"
