Fedex Express and Nissan expand cooperative testing of battery electric e-NV200 compact van; new panel version
19 September 2012
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| e-NV200 Panel Van Concept. Click to enlarge. |
Nissan is in the final development phase of its second mass production zero-emission vehicle, the battery electric e-NV200 compact van. (Earlier post.) At the 64th IAA Commercial Vehicle International Motor Show in Hanover, the company unveiled the new Panel Van version of the e-NV200 Concept, decorated with Nissan and FedEx graphics and logos.
The company has been working with FedEx Express since December 2011 to test the e-NV200 in real world operations to help shape development of the 100% electric compact delivery vehicle. (Earlier post.) FedEx Express currently operates 130 all-electric vehicles worldwide, making the company an ideal collaborator for this research and development initiative.
The all-electric drivetrain is based on that of the Nissan LEAF. Power is supplied by a lithium-ion battery made up of 48 compact modules and a highly responsive 80kW AC synchronous motor that generates 280 N·m (207 lb-ft) of torque.
Nissan and FedEx Express engineers began in December 2011 co-testing the e-NV200 prototype on the streets of London, UK. The test recently expanded to Yokohama, Japan, in order to obtain additional real-world driving feedback. The feedback will help Nissan to meet customer requirements in advance of the start of production, expected to commence in fiscal year (FY) 2013. Going forward, the proving tests will be newly expanded to countries such as Singapore, the USA and Brazil.
In addition to the cooperative testing, both companies have decided to continue their participation in the research and development of the urban parcel delivery vehicle and related software.
Nissan plans to roll out zero emission technologies into its light commercial vehicle (LCV) line-up. The e-NV200 will be the second of four electric vehicles (EV) announced by Nissan to reach mass production.
The e-NV200 will offer features such as quick charging, and a power outlet that enables the driver to plug in any electric device requiring up to 6,000W and work anywhere. Battery charging options include a complete recharge overnight or up to 80% capacity in 30 minutes using the Quick Charger.
This seems to be an excellent vehicle and a very appropriate user to test improved new quick charge EV batteries. All future Nissan electrified vehicles will benefit.
Posted by: HarveyD | 20 September 2012 at 09:03 AM