Amazon Launches Canada’s First Rivian Electric Delivery Fleet

Amazon has launched its first fleet of battery-electric delivery vans from Rivian in Canada, marking a significant step towards a zero-emission transportation network. This week, an initial fleet of 50 custom-built vans commenced operations in Metro Vancouver, highlighting Amazon’s commitment to sustainable delivery practices in the country.

According to a company release, this initiative represents Amazon’s first major move to electrify its delivery operations in Canada. “Amazon has always been committed to offering the fastest delivery speeds for our customers, and it’s tremendously exciting to now launch our first major initiative targeting the decarbonization of our local delivery fleet,” stated Eva Lorenz, Vice President and Country Manager of Amazon Canada.

The partnership with Rivian, a U.S.-based electric vehicle manufacturer, was first announced in 2019. The custom-built vans reflect Amazon’s broader sustainability vision, as noted by Jasmin Begagic, Director of Amazon Logistics Canada. She expressed that “this initiative embodies our mission to build a transportation network that works for our customers, our communities, and our planet.”

Innovative Features of the Rivian Vans

The Rivian delivery vans are engineered with advanced safety and driver experience features. Each vehicle includes 360-degree visibility, sensor detection systems, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Other features such as collision warnings, automatic door locking based on driver proximity, and powered bulkhead doors enhance safety and convenience.

Additionally, these vans are designed for comfort, offering ventilated seats with rapid heating and cooling, alongside an ergonomic interior. An integrated Amazon delivery workflow technology connects routing, navigation, and package management seamlessly, streamlining the delivery process.

The initial fleet of 50 vans will operate from Amazon’s DYV1 delivery station in Delta, with local Amazon Delivery Service Partners incorporating them into their routes. The company aims to expand this fleet across Canada as part of its global objective to deploy 100,000 Rivian battery-electric delivery vehicles by 2030.

Globally, Amazon operates over 35,000 electric delivery vehicles, which have collectively delivered over 1.5 billion packages. This milestone in Metro Vancouver not only marks a significant development for Amazon’s operations in Canada but also signifies the company’s ongoing commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting sustainable practices in logistics.

Future Expansion Plans

Looking ahead, Amazon plans to continue expanding its electric delivery fleet across Canada and other regions. The company’s global push towards electrification aligns with its commitment to The Climate Pledge, a commitment to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.

Tom Solomon, Vice President of B2B Growth and Business Development for Rivian, remarked, “This marks an exciting milestone in our five-year history of operations in Canada. We’ve engineered this vehicle to be the superior choice for fleets, integrating safety, comfort, and sustainability into every detail.”

As this initiative unfolds, it highlights the intersection of innovation and sustainability, paving the way for a greener future in delivery logistics.