Volvo Group, Renault Group, and CMA CGM Group are teaming up to address the increasing demands for decarbonized, efficient logistics. Their focus will be on a new generation of electric vans tailored for the evolving logistical ecosystem, heavily influenced by climate change and forthcoming CO2 regulations.
Why It Matters
- The urgency to transition to electrification is driven by climate change and future regulations on goods transportation.
- There’s a predicted tripling of the European market for electrified vans by 2030. This growth signifies immense potential, especially with the rise in e-commerce and rental businesses.
- This collaboration is poised to cater to the professional sector, which already contends with cost pressures and a demand for safer, fully connected vehicles.
Key Points
- New Alliance: Renault Group and Volvo Group will establish a new company, holding initial equity stakes of 50-50. The two giants pledge to invest EUR 300 million each over the next three years.
- Investment by CMA CGM: The shipping giant has signaled intent by signing a non-binding letter to join this venture, with an investment of EUR 120 million through its PULSE Energy Fund. This fund is geared towards decarbonizing the transport and logistics sectors.
- New Offerings: The new entity aims to unveil a family of fully electric, software-defined vehicles by 2026.
- Innovative Features:
- Vehicles will be constructed on a new fully electric LCV skateboard platform ensuring modularity and enhanced safety.
- The Software Defined Vehicle architecture promises 30% reduction in overall usage costs for logistics players and offers high connectivity services.
- Vans will boast of an 800V feature, offering unparalleled compactness for urban mobility and versatility for tailored solutions.
Bottom Line
The formation of this new company, scheduled for early 2024, symbolizes the future of logistics — electric, efficient, and eco-friendly. While the collaboration still awaits regulatory approval, its establishment will blend the agility of a startup with the expertise of industry giants. This strategic alliance, backed by three market leaders, is set to revolutionize urban logistics, providing comprehensive solutions that cater to the multifaceted needs of the logistics sector.
