Renault and Volvo are partnering to launch a new company focusing on next-gen electric vans, responding to the demand for cleaner and more efficient logistics. Teaming up with logistics specialist CMA CGM, the joint venture will continue to seek additional investment and business partners ahead of production starting in 2026.
Built on an innovative electric LCV skateboard platform, these vehicles promise versatility for various body styles, cost-effectiveness, and enhanced safety. The Software Defined Vehicle architecture allows for embedded connected services, enabling detailed monitoring of delivery processes and business performance. This could lead to a 30% reduction in overall usage costs for logistics businesses.
An advanced compact design suitable for city travel, customisable options for specific needs, varied battery capacities and an 800V electrical system for super-fast charging are all promised.
A New Venture
The new company will be fully independent, combining the agility of a start-up with the backbone of its industry-leading partners. Renault Group and Volvo Group will share investments in research and development and bring the benefit of existing know-how, services, and industrial footprint to the planned van company. With smart capital allocations in each field, the new company will be based on a solid and efficient business model.
While operating independently, the new van company will leverage the strengths and expertise of both Renault and Volvo. As a frontrunner in LCV and electric vehicle innovation, Renault will spearhead the development and large-scale production of the electric platform, connecting the vehicle seamlessly with the logistics business environment, while Volvo, a leading global truck manufacturer with professional logistics clients and an extensive service network, will complement the vehicle’s innovative platform, offering comprehensive solutions for eco-friendly urban logistics.
As a pivotal player in the supply chain, CMA CGM will guide the new company in crafting solutions that address the holistic needs of the transport and supply chain sectors, emphasising efficiency at every stage.
“We are excited to take yet another step in our journey towards sustainable transport solutions through the intended establishment of a new company. Volvo Group is keen to continue to offer its customers complete transport solutions that help them decarbonise their value chains. We see a growing demand for clean, efficient, and safe urban transportation and partnership and collaboration is key to achieve this,” says Martin Lundstedt, president and CEO of Volvo Group.
“Electrification and digitalisation are paving the way for a revolution in the LCV market. Renault Group intends to lead this transformation while ensuring a robust and effective value creation. Today, we are very proud to embark in this journey with Volvo Group to bring the best of solutions to our professional customers. We also look forward to CMA CGM joining the company. The new company is the start-up minded, unmatched combination of the complementary assets of three champions: a leading truck maker, expert in tailored services, a champion of the global supply chains, and a European EV pioneer & LCV leader. All the ingredients are there to come up with something truly unique,” says Luca de Meo, CEO of Renault Group.
“As a leader in transport and logistics, the CMA CGM Group is proud to join forces with a major European carmaker and a leading global truck maker, Renault Group and Volvo Group, to create this new company of electric vans. This is a comprehensive and innovative partnership: not only are we investing in this project, but we will also bring our know-how and expertise to ensure inbound and outbound logistics, while some of these vehicles could ultimately be used to decarbonise our fleet. Through this new investment by our PULSE Fund in electric mobility, we are pursuing our commitment to accelerate the decarbonisation of our activity and our sector,” added Rodolphe Saadé, chairman and CEO of the CMA CGM Group.
Joint Venture Timeline
The joint venture will start operations in 2024, subject to regulatory approval processes. CMA CGM will join the venture later, also subject to similar approvals. The resulting company will be based in France and operate under its own identity.
Volvo, owners of the Renault Truck brand, have worked together on LCVs for 35 years and currently distributes the Renault Trucks Master and Trafic van models. Renault has previously operated joint LCV manufacturing facilities with GM, including building the Renault Trafic-based Vauxhall Vivaro at its plant in Luton.
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