NorthStar Courier, a FedEx Ground contract service provider based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, will become the first fleet to operate the new Workhorse W56 208-inch extended wheelbase EV step van. 

This addition complements NorthStar Courier’s existing W56 178-inch wheelbase truck, expanding its zero-emission delivery capabilities. The vehicle will be delivered through Workhorse-certified dealer Ziegler Truck Group.

More Cargo Capacity with Extended W56

The W56 extended wheelbase version offers nearly 1,200 cubic feet of cargo capacity, making it a solution for high-volume delivery needs. Real-world results demonstrate the W56's work-ready performance, proving the vehicle’s ability to tackle delivery and service routes.

NorthStar Courier’s choice to expand its EV fleet with the W56 208-inch wheelbase demonstrates its satisfaction with the performance, reliability, and efficiency of its initial W56 EV step van, which successfully operated through the 2024 holiday peak delivery season and covered nearly 1,000 miles in sustained sub-freezing temperatures.

“Working with Workhorse has been a real game changer for us,” said Johannes Ariens of Ziegler Truck Group. “Its electric trucks are solid and dependable, which is exactly what our customers need. Helping NorthStar Courier add another W56 to its fleet was a smooth process, just like the first time. We appreciate our partnership with Workhorse and are excited to help more businesses make the switch to electric.”

Purchase Supported by State Grants

NorthStar Courier’s purchase is supported by Minnesota state grants to accelerate fleet electrification. Minnesota continues to make significant strides in commercial EV adoption, and these grants, offered by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA), provide funding for medium-duty commercial trucks, including the W56, to replace older fossil fuel-powered vehicles with all-electric models.

“We are thrilled that NorthStar Courier has chosen to expand its fleet by adding a W56 extended wheelbase EV step van,” said Kelly Kiger, vice president of sales at Workhorse. “NorthStar Courier’s continued trust in our vehicles and in Ziegler as its dealer underscores the reliability and efficiency of the W56, and the excellent service and support network that we offer through dealers like Ziegler.”

Workhorse W56 Made in Indiana

The all-electric W56, manufactured at the Workhorse Ranch in Union City, Indiana, is engineered for last-mile delivery with a focus on efficiency and performance. With pre-configured upfit options tailored for parcel delivery, the W56 provides work-ready solutions that meet the needs of FedEx Ground service providers.

Workhorse will feature the W56 step van with 208-inch extended wheelbase at Work Truck Week 2025, in Indianapolis, March 4-7. Registered attendees will have the opportunity to get behind the wheel in the event’s Ride & Drive experience.