Following the news that electric commercial vehicle start-up Volta has shown its new a purpose built electric distribution and DAF has extended the range on its CF Electric;

David Leggett, Automotive Analyst at GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company, offers his view: 

“We’re certainly seeing growth of interest in electric powertrain solutions for commercial vehicles  – in both light duty and heavier duty applications. There’s a particular focus on urban delivery where zero emissions in use is emerging as a rising benefit for operators.

“Plenty of new product is coming, too, especially in electric light vans that can help meet the boom in online shopping and need for last mile delivery with low emissions.

“In terms of heavier freight distribution, start-up manufacturer Volta has produced a radical electric truck design that will hit the European market in 2022. Established manufacturers such as DAF are also investing in electric trucks.

“DAF’s heavy duty CF Electric with extended range starts European deliveries in 2021 and it is claimed it will manage 500 kms a day on a full charge supplemented by a second charge on the driver’s break or while unloading. That’s pretty good going on the surface, although operators will obviously be looking to see how total costs pan out and compare with conventional tech.”