FEDEX Express is preparing to deploy an unspecified number of electric Newton Step Vans for use in select markets over the course of the year.

Neither the logistics firm nor the manufacturer would say how many vans will be deployed this year. The electric step vans, which are standard shape walk-in vehicle in which one can stand up, are able run up to 100 miles on a single charge.

It said the Newton Step Van features Smith Electric Vehicle's proprietary battery-based technology and a walk-in body manufactured by Indiana-based truck-body maker Utilimaster.

The Newton Step Van can be specified for gross vehicle weights of between 14,000 and 26,000 pounds. The report added that the electric step vans have been deployed and tested as an urban pickup and delivery vehicle by several companies already, including Coca-Cola, Duane Reed and New Deal Logistics.

Source Shipping Gazette - Daily Shipping News