FedEx Express delivery drivers are now scooting around the East Asian country Taiwan with their new wheels, the Rapide 3. They hit the road a few days ago. The international shipping company has partnered with Gaius Automotive to use electrical three-wheelers for commercial purposes for last-mile delivery and pick-ups.
Boosting efficiency
The high flexibility yet secure storage gives FedEx Express a head start to its delivery destination. It has enough power to complete a full day’s work. Charging the Rapide 3 is as quick as 15 minutes to charge to 80%, with a warranty that the battery could last up to 8 years.
Here are the specs:
- Cargo capacity of 1000 liters.
- Payload of up to 200 kilograms.
- High load capacity – reducing the frequency of trips to logistics warehouses.
- Battery range of 110 kilometers.
- Real-time monitoring of vehicle dynamics and historical records
Safety features:
- 35-degree tilting system for stability during turns.
- Side-access cargo box is convenient for removing an item.
- Long windshields and wipers are safer in various weather conditions.
The manufacturer of Rapide 3, Gaius Automotive, says it has an efficient drivetrain, small size, and weight that allows the tricycle to achieve a 180km range on a single charge.
Reducing emissions
FedEx is focused on reducing emissions, and adding the Rapide 3 to its fleet in Taiwan is fitting. “Switching to an electric scooter from a traditional fuel scooter reduces an estimated 35 kilograms of carbon emissions per unit per month. [This adds] up to potential carbon savings of more than two tons of total carbon a year at a single FedEx station with a fleet of scooters,” says FedEx.
According to statistics from Taiwan’s climate change administration, ministry of environment, the transportation sector contributes about 13% of Taiwan’s total carbon emissions. Large commercial vehicles account for up to 25% of fine-particle air pollutants known as PM2.5.
“By incorporating the Rapide 3, FedEx continues its work toward a more sustainable future,” says the shipper.
Sustainable logistics
“As one of the largest express transportation companies, FedEx is committed to providing more efficient and sustainable logistics solutions. [We are also] investing in more environmentally friendly last-mile technologies,” says Michael Chu, managing director of FedEx Taiwan.
“Our collaboration with Gaius Automotive is a meaningful milestone on our journey toward the FedEx goal of carbon-neutral operations by 2040. We will continue our efforts to bring forth more possibilities for a sustainable future,” says Chu.
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Mia is a multi-award-winning journalist. She has more than 14 years of experience in mainstream media. She's covered many historic moments that happened in Africa and internationally. She has a strong focus on human interest stories, to bring her readers and viewers closer to the topics at hand.
