Workhorse announced that FedEx has issued a purchase order for 15 W56 electric step vans for delivery in 2024. This milestone order follows a successful demonstration in which the Workhorse W56 step van met FedEx operation duty cycle requirements.

These 15 W56 step vans will support the FedEx goal to achieve carbon-neutral global operations by 2040—underscoring the company’s phased approach to replacing older vehicle technologies with new, zero-tailpipe-emission solutions.

During real-world delivery route testing, the W56 achieved an impressive 31 MPGe. Compared to the national average fuel economy of 7 MPG for delivery trucks, this demonstrates significantly lower energy consumption per mile. Based on an average of 31,875 miles driven per vehicle per year, the purchase helps avoid an estimated 607 metric tons of tailpipe emissions annually.

“FedEx is cultivating a strong roster of electric vehicle models that can meet the demands of our network,” said Pat Donlon, Vice President, Global Vehicles, FedEx. “In joining our fleet, the electric Workhorse W56 will be part of our story as we aim to transition our global parcel pickup and delivery fleet to all zero-tailpipe emissions vehicles by 2040.”

The Workhorse W56 step van is engineered to meet the demanding needs of commercial last-mile delivery operations. With its efficient eAxle electric drivetrain and extended range aided by highly efficient regenerative braking, the W56 delivers superior efficiency, lower operational costs, and a reduced environmental footprint. This makes it perfect for stop-and-go delivery routes and ideal for last-mile delivery.

Rick Dauch, Workhorse CEO, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration: “We are thrilled to be selected by FedEx and support their sustainability goals. This milestone demonstrates our highly efficient and high-quality EV chassis and body, along with our excellent engineering, field support, upfit, and operational capabilities. Our ability to build complete vehicles differentiates us from our competitors and enables us to quickly fulfill orders. We look forward to working with FedEx as they transition to electric last-mile delivery vehicles.”