In a significant move towards sustainable urban logistics, Amazon has entered into a multi-year agreement with Also, a micromobility startup spun out of Rivian, to integrate thousands of pedal-assist cargo quadricycles into its delivery fleet across Europe and the United States. This collaboration aims to enhance Amazon’s last-mile delivery capabilities while reducing its environmental footprint.
The Genesis of Also
Also emerged from Rivian’s internal projects, officially becoming an independent entity earlier this year with a $105 million investment from Eclipse Ventures. Despite its independence, Also maintains a close relationship with Rivian, which retains a minority stake in the company. Rivian’s founder and CEO, RJ Scaringe, serves on Also’s board, facilitating a seamless integration of technologies and strategies between the two companies.
The TM-Q: A Game-Changer in Urban Deliveries
Central to this partnership is the TM-Q, a pedal-assist electric quadricycle designed to navigate urban environments efficiently. Key features of the TM-Q include:
– Payload Capacity: Capable of carrying over 400 pounds of packages, making it suitable for substantial delivery loads.
– Compact Design: Its size allows it to utilize bike lanes, enabling faster navigation through congested city streets.
– Advanced Technology: Equipped with a pedal-by-wire system developed by Also, the TM-Q offers a responsive and intuitive riding experience. A five-inch circular touchscreen provides navigation, media controls, fitness statistics, and assist levels. This interface syncs with the Also app, allowing users to monitor battery status, download software updates, and manage security features.
– Modular Battery System: The TM-Q utilizes portable, removable batteries, facilitating easy swaps and reducing downtime. Also is developing battery docking stations to support this feature, ensuring continuous operation without the need for prolonged charging periods.
Customization and Integration
Under the agreement, Amazon and Also will collaborate to tailor the TM-Q vehicles to meet specific delivery requirements. This customization process will focus on optimizing the vehicles for various urban landscapes and delivery scenarios, ensuring they align with Amazon’s operational standards and efficiency goals.
Leveraging Established Relationships
The partnership between Amazon and Also builds upon a history of collaboration. Rivian, the parent company from which Also was spun off, has previously supplied Amazon with over 25,000 electric delivery vans. This existing relationship provides a solid foundation for the current initiative. Scaringe emphasized the benefits of this collaboration, stating, We really understand how to work with each other… There’s no guesswork, and Also has benefited from a lot of input from the Rivian team, which has been involved because they’re so close to Amazon.
Broader Implications for Micromobility
While the TM-Q is initially tailored for commercial use, Also has plans to introduce a consumer version of the quadricycle. This variant will feature a bench system designed to accommodate passengers, groceries, or pets, highlighting the versatility of the underlying quad platform. Also’s president, Chris Yu, noted, It’s less about what’s on top here and it’s more about the underlying quad platform, suggesting potential for various applications beyond package delivery.
Amazon’s Commitment to Sustainability
This initiative aligns with Amazon’s broader commitment to sustainability. The company has been actively expanding its fleet of electric delivery vehicles, including the deployment of Rivian-built electric vans in Europe. By incorporating pedal-assist cargo vehicles like the TM-Q, Amazon aims to further reduce its carbon footprint and enhance delivery efficiency in densely populated urban areas.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Amazon and Also represents a forward-thinking approach to urban logistics, combining innovative vehicle design with a commitment to environmental sustainability. As these pedal-assist cargo vehicles roll out in the coming years, they are poised to transform last-mile delivery operations, offering a cleaner, more efficient alternative to traditional delivery methods.
