E-Mobility
WEVC and Hydro develop recyclable electric delivery van
The British startup Watt Electric Vehicle Company (WEVC) recently announced a collaboration with the Norwegian aluminum producer Hydro. These two companies will work together on the production of WEVC's eCV1 electric vehicle: an electric delivery van that is durable. The goal of the partnership is to use recycled and low-carbon aluminum in the production of commercial electric vans, and to reduce both, costs and CO2 emissions over the vehicle’s entire lifecycle.
The British startup Watt Electric Vehicle Company (WEVC) recently announced a collaboration with the Norwegian aluminum producer Hydro. These two companies will work together on the production of WEVC's eCV1 electric vehicle: an electric delivery van that is durable. The goal of the partnership is to use recycled and low-carbon aluminum in the production of commercial electric vans, and to reduce both, costs and CO2 emissions over the vehicle’s entire lifecycle.
WEVC aims to reduce its carbon footprint by up to 50 percent compared to other electric commercial vehicles
According to WEVC, Hydro's use of renewable energy in the production makes its aluminum less carbon-intensive than the aluminum of other producers. With a CO2 footprint of 4 kg per ton, the manufacturer's aluminum is significantly more sustainable than the global average, a company spokesperson added. Through the development partnership with Hydro, the new alloys are said to have the right strength and durability characteristics and the lowest possible manufacturing emissions, taking the entire supply chain into account. The goal is to reduce the carbon footprint by up to 50 percent compared to electric commercial vehicles of other brands.
Prototype electric van expected to last more than 20 years
Overall, the prototype recycled aluminum electric van is expected to have a lifespan of more than 20 years, compared to an average of 5 to 7 years for other commercial vehicles, according to WEVC.
This long lifespan will also be made possible by constant software updates and a holistic offering that includes vehicles, fleet optimization, maintenance and charging infrastructure. At the end of the vehicle's life, the body, chassis and powertrain will be reused, including second-life solutions for the batteries. WEVC is eventually aiming for a closed production cycle. The eCV1 prototype is also equipped with a 110 kWh battery, which is supposed to provide a range of around 370 kilometers.
Series production based on the prototype to start at the end of 2025
WEVC also plans to build a small fleet of test vehicles based on the prototype in 2024. Commercial production is expected to begin at the end of 2025.
Series production based on the prototype to start at the end of 2025
WEVC also plans to build a small fleet of test vehicles based on the prototype in 2024. Commercial production is expected to begin at the end of 2025.
