Amazon debuts Rivian electric vans in Canada
The vans in question are custom models based on Rivian’s skateboard platform, which is used by the automaker’s R1T pickup and R1S SUV. There are two variants of the van called EDV500 and EDV700, referring to 500 and 700 cubic feet of cargo volume, equivalent to 14.1 and 19.8 cubic metres, respectively. A third variant with a load volume of 900 cubic feet (equivalent to 25.5 cubic metres) has yet to follow. EDV is short for Electric Delivery Vehicle, and the EDV itself was originally designed specifically for Amazon – a stakeholder of Rivian.
In this case, Amazon has said that its Canadian vans are customised specifically for its use: features including a large windscreen, sensor detection, automatic emergency brakes, and cruise control all contribute to visibility and safety.
According to Retail Insider, the company also says that the vans feature embedded technology which “fully integrates” the Amazon delivery workflow in the vehicle in terms of navigation, routing, support, and package organisation. There’s also a few other quality of life features: automatic door (un)locking, plus a powered bulkhead door which opens when drivers reach their destination.
The Rivian vans are being operated out of Amazon’s DYV1 delivery depot in Delta, B.C. by two of its local Delivery Service Partners. They’re the first of presumably many more electric Rivian vans to enter Canada; the company states it wants to operate 100,000 Rivian electric delivery vehicles by 2030, and with more than 20,000 of these already in the US, it seems Canada is the natural next step for the firm’s North American ambitions.
Eva Lorenz, VP Country Manager of Amazon Canada, said: “These innovative Rivian vehicles mark a significant step in Amazon’s journey toward net-zero carbon by 2040 as part of The Climate Pledge. They also reflect our ongoing commitment to Canada, where we now employ 46,000 people, including 10,000 in British Columbia.”
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