General Motors on Tuesday threw its hat further into the electrified trucking ring with the debut of a full ecosystem of electric first-to-last-mile products, software and services.
Dubbed BrightDrop, the new business is structured as a one-stop-shop solution that lowers costs, maximizes productivity, improves employee safety and freight security, and supports overall sustainability efforts, while also offering “a smarter way to deliver goods and services,” said GM Chairwoman and CEO Mary Barra.
Barra announced the platform during her keynote address at CES 2021 – a consumer electronics show that in recent years has become popular among OEMs debuting and showcasing electric and autonomous trucking initiatives.
The EP1, BrightDrop’s first product to market, is a propulsion-assisted electric pallet designed to move cargo short distances; for example, from the delivery vehicle to the customer’s door.
GM completed an EP1 pilot program in partnership with FedEx Express, noting couriers were able to handle 25% more packages per day with the EP1s while reducing physical strain.
Available early this year, the EP1 features built-in electric hub motors with adjustable speed up to 3 mph depending on operator’s walking pace. The EP1 offers maneuverability in tight spaces; the capacity to carry and secure approximately 23 cubic feet of cargo; a payload capacity of 200 pounds; adjustable shelving organizes contents; and lockable cabinet doors for secure, remote access to contents.
Up later this year will be an electric light commercial vehicle, the EV600. Powered by GM’s Ultium battery system, the EV600 is set to feature more than 600 cubit feet of cargo area – which will have a security system with motion sensors – and targets a range of up to 250 miles on a full charge, with a peak charge rate of up to 170 miles of EV range per hour via 120kW DC fast charging.
