Prodrive and Astheimer Design’s Elm Mobility Concept: The Adorable 2028 Electric Last-Mile Delivery Van
Prodrive, the renowned British engineering firm behind iconic vehicles like the Subaru rally cars and Le Mans race cars, has teamed up with Astheimer Design to create Elm Mobility, a project focused on creating practical and efficient utility vehicles. The first product of this partnership is the pint-sized Evolv electric van, designed specifically for “last-mile” delivery services.
Compact and Capable: The Features of the Evolv Van
The Evolv van measures just 128.0 inches long, 57.0 inches wide, and weighs a mere 1,874 pounds. Despite its small size, it offers a main cargo area that can accommodate freight up to 5.2 feet tall and 660 pounds in weight. Additionally, a secondary cargo area accessible through rear barn doors provides an extra 3.9 feet of storage space and a capacity of 440 pounds. With a turning radius of 25.6 feet, the Evolv van offers exceptional maneuverability suitable for urban environments.
Safety and Efficiency: Meeting European Standards and Battery Performance
Elm Mobility assures that the Evolv van meets N1 small van safety crash standards in Europe, ensuring the protection of both the driver and cargo. The proposed 20.0-kilowatt-hour battery pack offers a range of approximately 100 miles, making it ideal for short-distance deliveries. Quick charging capabilities allow for a refill from 20-80 percent in less than two hours when using a level 2 charger. While the top speed is currently listed at 50 miles per hour, Elm Mobility is exploring various battery configurations to potentially increase performance.
Future Plans: Production and Expansion of the Evolv Van
Although the Elm Evolv van is currently a concept, the company plans to begin production in 2028. Elm Mobility is collaborating with a US investor to introduce a small fleet of electric vans in the United States, with the majority remaining in Europe. The goal is to produce 10,000 units annually by 2030, with an estimated price point around $30,000 (£25,000). This plan reflects Elm Mobility’s commitment to making sustainable and efficient vehicles accessible for a wide range of users.
Conclusion
The Prodrive and Astheimer Design collaboration on the Elm Mobility project represents an exciting development in the realm of electric utility vehicles. With the introduction of the Evolv electric van, designed for last-mile delivery services, the partnership showcases innovation, practicality, and sustainability. By combining Prodrive’s engineering expertise with Astheimer Design’s creative vision, Elm Mobility aims to revolutionize the way goods are transported in urban areas. With plans for production in 2028 and ambitious expansion goals, the Evolv van has the potential to make a significant impact on the future of urban mobility.