Cornwall-based low-volume electric vehicle manufacturer Watt Electric Vehicle Company (WEVC) has revealed its new EV platform, which is says will be used as the foundation for a range of commercial vehicles.
The St Columb Major-based firm, which was formed last year from the merger of three EV start-ups, says that the eCV1 can be used for 3.5-tonne chassis cabs and panel vans, with a range of flexible options available. It is aiming to produce up to 5000 of the machines per year.
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The eCV1 platform is built using WEVC’s own Passenger and Commercial EV Skateboard (PACES), which is designed for a wide range of commercial and passenger vehicles. That architecture uses a ‘cell-to-chassis’ system, with the batteries integrated into the primary structure to improve stiffness and reduce weight.
Available in a range of designs, eCV1 vehicles will feature a central driving position designed to allowed for safer entry and exit and better visibility, and can be configured with one, two or three seats.
The central driving position means that there is a large window area and the position of the A-pillars can be moved inwards, which the firm says has enabled it to reduce the frontal area and drag, in turn improving the efficiency.
The platform also allows for vehicle that have enough room to stand up in, including a ‘walk-through’ cabin designed for urban delivery vehicles.
The eCV1 is the first in a series of commercial vehicle types that WEVC is aiming to build using its PACES architecture. It allows for machines weighting as little as 1750kg, and that are suitable for the 3.5t and 4.25t commercial vehicle segments.
The architecture can accept front-, rear- and all-wheel-drive powertrains, and is suitable for both passenger and commercial vehicles.
WEVC boss Neil Yates said: “As the electrification of the transport sector accelerates what we are seeing from customers is the need for a ready-to-go, sophisticated yet cost-effective electric commercial vehicle offering.
“With our first product, the eCV1, we have really re-thought what is possible, and over the coming months will reveal full details of the further unique features that make it a truly revolutionary light electric commercial vehicle.”
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