Amazon has announced a new collaboration with Rivian’s Also spinoff to develop a custom-designed pedal-assisted four-wheel cargo bike. This initiative aims to enhance Amazon’s fleet of micromobility vehicles, with plans to deploy “thousands of quads” across Europe and the United States. The bike is expected to be based on the TM-Q quad vehicle that was recently unveiled in San Francisco.
This partnership marks a new phase in the relationship between Amazon and Rivian, which previously focused on the development of the EDV electric delivery van. After a period of exclusivity, Rivian has made the EDV available to other commercial fleet owners as well.
Emily Barber, Amazon’s Director of Global Fleet, highlighted the advantages of micromobility solutions for urban deliveries, emphasizing their potential to mitigate traffic congestion and noise. She noted that this collaboration with Also would leverage both Amazon’s delivery logistics experience and Also’s innovative technology and safety features.
Additionally, Amazon has incorporated electric cargo bikes into its delivery operations in various U.S. and Canadian cities, using them to navigate urban areas where parking and curb space can be challenging.
The Also TM-Q is expected to feature similar technology to Rivian’s TM-B two-wheeled e-bike, including pedal-by-wire technology and a removable battery that can function as a mobile power bank. This development raises questions about the broader implications for urban delivery systems and environmental impact as Amazon expands its use of such vehicles.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/news/804889/amazon-rivian-also-tmq-quad-ebike-delivery