Amazon partners with Rivian to launch first electric vehicle

Amazon has revealed its first custom electric delivery vehicle, designed and built in partnership with Rivian.

The development is the first step on the online retail giant’s path to getting 10,000 electric vehicles on the road by 2022 and 100,000 by 2030.

The delivery vans feature 360-degree view cameras; Alexa integration for hands-free access to route information and three levels of shelving with a bulkhead door.

Amazon said that prior to its relationship with EV manufacturer Rivian, it was unable to find the electric options to meet the needs of its drivers and delivery operations.

It said that together they had “invented a solution” which will reset industry expectations: “We combined Rivian’s technology with our delivery logistics knowledge, and the result is what you see here – the future of last mile delivery,” said Ross Rachey, director of Amazon’s global fleet and products.

“We hope our custom electric vehicle helps create a sense of urgency in the industry to think big about embracing sustainable technology and solutions – whether you're a package delivery company, a logistics company, an ice cream manufacturer, or almost anyone else with vehicles on the road.”