Ryder System, a player in supply chain, dedicated transportation, and fleet management solutions, has unveiled a significant development in its commitment to embracing the increasing demand for commercial electric vehicles (EVs) in the United States. The company has deployed its inaugural fleet of BrightDrop Zevo 600 electric vans at four key Ryder facilities across California, Texas, and New York.
This deployment of BrightDrop’s electric vans within Ryder’s rental fleet signifies a pivotal stride towards Ryder’s ambition of keeping pace with the surging popularity of commercial electric vehicles in the United States. Earlier this year, Ryder disclosed its intentions to integrate 4,000 BrightDrop electric vans into its fleet by 2025, with the initial order of 200 units placed this year.
To introduce these new electric vehicles into the Ryder fleet, Ryder orchestrated “Ride & Drive” events for its customers, showcasing the capabilities of the BrightDrop vans and featuring EV chargers from ChargePoint. During these events, customers had the opportunity to experience firsthand the power, safety, and efficiency of these vehicles. They also gained insights into Ryder’s latest fleet investments and strategic collaborations with EV and charging equipment manufacturers.
Ryder customers can now rent the BrightDrop Zevo 600 electric vans at Ryder locations in key areas, including Southern California (Santa Fe Springs), Northern California (Hayward), Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas (Saginaw), and New York (Long Island City).
Tom Havens, President of Fleet Management Solutions for Ryder, commented, “Working with companies such as BrightDrop keeps Ryder at the forefront of identifying and testing advanced and emerging vehicle technology, and we’re excited to incorporate these new EVs into our fleet. Through our partnerships with technology providers and equipment manufacturers, Ryder can offer commercial fleet management solutions that drive sustainability and operational goals for our customers.”
The BrightDrop Zevo 600 electric van boasts an impressive range of up to 250 miles and can accommodate a payload ranging from 1,460 to 2,450 pounds. With a cargo capacity of 615 cubic feet, BrightDrop’s electric light commercial van combines the advantages of an electric powertrain with ample cargo space. Steve Hornyak, Chief Commercial Officer for BrightDrop, highlighted the positive impact of electrifying commercial fleets, stating, “Electrifying commercial fleets can reduce operating emissions without sacrificing range, safety, or performance. By adding BrightDrop EVs to its fleet offerings, Ryder is helping make electrification possible for companies big and small.”
Ryder’s rental fleet offers a variety of EV options, including BrightDrop Zevos, accompanied by flexible vehicle insurance coverage, round-the-clock roadside assistance, single-source maintenance, geotagging for tracking and monitoring vehicle usage, and more. Ryder’s charging infrastructure, powered by ChargePoint, a leading provider of networked EV charging solutions, enhances accessibility for charging options, facilitating longer trips and greater flexibility.
Earlier this year, Ryder introduced RyderElectric+ as its comprehensive turnkey EV fleet solution. This innovative offering navigates the EV landscape for customers, providing electrification advisors, leased vehicles, charging infrastructure, telematics, and maintenance, all bundled into one inclusive package.
Carlo Rodriguez, Managing Director for Electric Vehicles at Ryder, reiterated the company’s commitment, stating, “Ryder’s aim is to continue to evaluate and provide advanced vehicle technology solutions to help customers seamlessly integrate EVs into their business.” Ryder’s strategic initiatives in the EV sector demonstrate its dedication to facilitating a sustainable future for commercial transportation.