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Amazon is now using Rivian’s custom-made EVs to deliver packages in the United States. Of course, these vans are not yet widely used, but they are the future of package delivery for Amazon.
It was first in 2019 that Amazon and EV manufacturer Rivian announced their partnership for producing electric-powered delivery vehicles. The project’s goal was to fulfill Amazon’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. The vans have now started to deliver packages to US customers.
As per Amazon’s announcement, these vans are now available in Baltimore, Chicago, Dallas, Kansas City, Nashville, Phoenix, San Diego, Seattle, and St. Louis. The company expects these vans to deliver packages in over 100 cities by the end of 2022. Amazon also wants to bring 100,000 Rivian electric vans in use by 2030.
Of course, this is not the first time we’re seen Rivian EVs deliver packages for Amazon Prime. Last year, the company started to test its vehicles in Los Angeles. At the time, Amazon hoped to be able to use these vans in 16 cities by the end of 2021. However, this prediction seemed very optimistic and far from reality.
Amazon adds Rivian electric vans to its transport fleet
All tech companies, including Amazon, have committed to significantly reducing their carbon footprint by 2040. Adding these EVs to Amazon’s fleet helps the company to move toward fulfilling its commitments.
Of course, the Rivian electric vans also aim to increase safety for delivery drivers. The EVs are designed with safety features in mind and offer greater visibility. Also, they come with automatic emergency braking and highway assistance. With Alexa built-in, drivers can also check the weather or improve their rides.
Amazon is not just a regular customer of Rivian, and it holds 20 percent of the company’s stake. This partnership could bring a mutual benefit to both companies. Collaborating with Amazon could help Rivian to sign new contracts with other delivery and retail companies.
Besides using electric vans to showcase technological upgrades, Amazon has also recently brought its first autonomous warehouse robot in use. The new robot, called Proteus, can move packages inside the warehouse without a human guide.