REE Automotive, maker of unique modular platforms on which companies can build electric vehicles of various shapes and sizes, has begun deliveries of its P7-C demonstration trucks for evaluation by multiple fleets in North America.
The “Powered by REE” P7-C medium-duty electric commercial truck is the first fully steer-by-wire, brake-by-wire and drive-by-wire vehicle certified by the US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards and Environmental Protection Agency.
In “by wire” vehicles, electronic or electro-mechanical systems are used in place of mechanical connections to control the vehicle’s functions. Using electronic systems instead of mechanical ones reduces the overall weight of the vehicle, which reduces emissions. By-wire systems also improve the accuracy and speed of response time.
The first batch of customer deliveries is being facilitated by REE distributor Pritchard EV. Additional authorized dealers and fleets are expected to receive P7-C demonstration units in the coming weeks.
REE’s P7-C is eligible for the US federal Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Commercial Clean Vehicle Tax Credit of up to $40,000 per vehicle.
REE is also in the process of initiating eligibility for various state incentives, which could bring the total incentive to over $100,000 per vehicle, depending on the customer’s location.
Richard Colley, REE’s VP of Government and Regulatory Affairs, said these federal and state incentives “will help accelerate fleet electrification in the US, helping to improve public health and meet ambitious climate goals.”
Daniel Barel, CEO and cofounder of REE Automotive, said the technology “is a true gamechanger, allowing us to build electric trucks that fleets will want to buy, and drivers will love to drive as we continue to see a strong demand for our work trucks.”
REE’s proprietary REEcorner module contains steering, braking, suspension, powertrain and control systems in one compact unit positioned between the chassis and the wheel.
Using four identical REEcorners enables REE to make the industry’s flattest EV platforms with more room for passengers, cargo and batteries.
REEcorner and x-by-wire technology for drive, steer and brake control, the company says, enable superior maneuverability, enhanced safety, improved ergonomics and serviceability, more efficient maintenance, lower spare-part inventory management, improved residual value, optimal energy efficiency and other benefits.
In May 2022, REE opened a fully robotic assembly line at its first integration center in Coventry, UK.
The multiple award-winning e-mobility company, founded in 2011, is headquartered in Glil Yam, a kibbutz in central Israel.