Amazon Deploys 300 Rivian Electric Vans in Europe

Amazon has deployed the first 300 of a reported 100,000 Rivian electric vans in Europe, part of the online retailer’s €1 billion investment to electrify and decarbonize its transportation across the continent.

A collaboration by Rivian and Amazon, the vans will deliver packages across major German cities, including Munich, Berlin and Dusseldorf. For the European market, the companies designed a shorter, thinner van than its U.S. counterpart to better fit on European city roads.

The Electric Delivery Vans design prioritizes safety, sustainability, and driver comfort. Safety- features include automatic emergency breaking, collision warnings and 360-degree visibility. Drawing from driver feedback, according to Rivian, the van’s custom design choices include “first-of-its-kind technology” integrating delivery workflow with the vehicle; an ergonomically designed driver’s cabin; and a powered bulkhead door that opens when drivers reach delivery destinations.

The van’s launch also marks the California-based Rivian’s entry in the European marketplace, said Dagan Mishoulam, Rivian VP, Strategy & Go To Market.

Amazon has invested more than £350 million (about $450 million) in the EV manufacturer to help accelerate the development of zero-emission vehicles. The retailer says it will also invest in thousands of chargers across its European facilities.