Renault Trucks has revealed its OptiModale concept that sees its E-Tech Master van combined with a cargo e-bike and a parcel carrying drone, complete with a heli-drone landing pad.

Designed by Renault as a concept to help reduce congestion and improve air quality in urban areas, the E-Tech Master OptiModale is built around an all-electric 3.5 tonne LWB L3H1 E-Tech Master van with Low Loader Luton body by Horton Commercials. Acting as the mothership, the van holds an eBullitt electric Cargo bike and a Uvatek drone on board.

E-Tech Master OptiModale: The Van

The E-Tech Master Platform Cab chassis houses Renault’s R75 electric motor powered by a 33kWh battery pack – although the latest E-Tech Master is available with a larger 52kWh option. The 3.5-tonne LWB L3H1 platform cab combines useful range and payload for urban and last-mile deliveries, offering a typical range of around 80 miles before requiring recharging.

A specially commissioned 4,100mm Low Loader Luton body by Horton Commercials is fully equipped for parcel delivery, with plenty of capacity and folding shelving for convenience. It also houses a bike lift and heli-drone pad system.

Renault Trucks E-Tech Master OptiModale
E-Tech Master OptiModale: The Bike

Able to carry cargo weighing up to 100kg, the latest generation eBullitt electric cargo bike is finished in a Renault Trucks Red frame with a corresponding white cargo box. It is equipped with the latest Shimano e-system that can provide up to 30 miles of power assist for the cyclist.

Once back on board the E-Tech Master OptiModale, the battery can be removed and fully charged from empty in four hours.

Renault Trucks E-Tech Master OptiModale and eBullitt cargo bike
E-Tech Master OptiModale: The Drone

Above the eCargo bike location is the retractable heli-drone pad from which the latest generation parcel carrying drone from Uvatek can be launched, carrying high value loads up to 2kgs in weight.

The Uvatek Magpie can be programmed to receive or deliver to multiple locations within the same mission, reaching a wide area within its 40 minute flying time. A physical return switch sends the drone back to its landing pad, meaning the drone can be operated by untrained users to receive or return payloads.

Whilst there are restrictions on where drones can fly, the speed and accuracy of the Uvatek makes it ideal for urgent time-sensitive deliveries over the countryside or across water.

Renault Trucks E-Tech Master OptiModale and Uvatek drone

Grahame Neagus, Head of LCV at Renault Trucks UK & Ireland, says: “The all-new Renault Trucks E-Tech Master OptiModale addresses the pressing need to improve air quality and pollution in our cities while improving accessibility and productivity for operators. By harnessing multiple modes of electric transport, this is an all-in-one sustainable solution that is set to transform the rapidly growing parcel market, and can be replicated anywhere in the world.

“The E-Tech Master OptiModale is a two-person operation, offering the flexibility of delivering larger parcels by van, whilst the second team member takes the eBullitt cargo bike for last mile deliveries where congestion is at its worst. Additionally, the drone provides rapid deployment for urgent situations, such as delivering vital drugs or supplies to challenging or inaccessible locations.

“OptiModale delivers an innovative “last mile” solution and is a clear illustration of the breadth and depth of our thinking, providing Renault Trucks logistics customers with a sustainable solution from 2kg all the way up to 44 tonne.”

Phil Huff
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