Renault Trucks unveils Master OptiModale last-mile delivery solution

Renault Trucks has launched a new multimodal last mile e-mobility concept, which combines three types of electric transportation in one vehicle.

The Master OptiModale consists of an electric van; an electric cargo bike; and a parcel-carrying drone.

Designed to suit a wide range of logistics operations, as well as medical applications, the E-Tech OptiModale can carry and deliver parcels of various sizes. Its specially commissioned Low Loader Luton body holds the parcels and acts as the ‘Mothership’ for the eCargo bike and drone helipad system.

Grahame Neagus, head of LCV at Renault Trucks UK & Ireland, said: “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, while 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.

Based on a Renault Trucks E-Tech Master Platform Cab chassis with the R75 electric motor and a 33kWh battery (also available with the new 52kWh battery) the 3.5-tonne LWB L3H1 platform cab has a typical range of around 80 miles before requiring charge. Renault says this type of vehicle is ideal for back-to-base operations that are located on the edge of major conurbations where entering the inner town or city requires zero emission vehicles.

A specially commissioned 4100mm Low Loader Luton body by Horton Commercials is fully equipped for parcel delivery with folding shelving, with electric cargo bike store to the nearside complete with bike lift, and heli-drone pad system.

The eBullitt electric cargo bike, capable of carrying up to 100kgs of smaller parcels, is finished in a Renault Trucks Red frame with corresponding white cargo box. It is equipped with the latest Shimano e-system that can provide up to 31 miles of power assist for the cyclist and once back on board the E-Tech Master OptiModale, the battery can be removed and charged within four hours.

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.