RE-100 Range Extender is an electrification solution that will help fleet managers to maximise their investment in vans by extending the life of the vehicle by transitioning them to an electric future. The solution gives a vehicle 117 kilometres of electric range, while its existing diesel mode can be used for longer trips, switching to electric when entering a low-emission zone and densely populated areas and accelerating decarbonisation of the sector.
The technology incorporates two in-wheel motors and a battery designed, engineered and manufactured by Bedeo. The in-wheel motors are fitted to the rear axle of the vehicle and are more compact, lighter and efficient than an equivalent e-axle. They are also easier to install and are powered by a 37 kWh battery. No modifications to the suspension are needed, front or rear, which means there is no loss of ground clearance and no loss of load space or height.
“The traditional model of fleet owners is to invest in new vans, but electric vans today don’t meet the needs of the market and even Euro VI diesel vans are still responsible for a disproportionate amount of carbon emissions” said Bedeo founder Osman Boyner. With the RE-100 we have created a new category of hybrid that not only meets the needs of the market but also accelerates transport decarbonisation.”
The RE-100 is a hybrid in as much as it can have two modes of power – electric and diesel – but with the Bedeo technology the vehicle cannot be operated as diesel within controlled low-emissions zones, unless in an emergency. Outside of controlled zones the driver is in control and can determine when to stay in electric for a more pleasant driving experience, or switch to diesel for longer distances.
The ability to retrofit Bedeo’s IWM into an existing vehicle is an entirely new proposition. Commercial fleet operators face a number of significant challenges in the next few years, not least the uncertainty of a moving government deadline for an all-electric future which makes the RE-100 launch even more important.
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