FPT Industrial, Iveco and Nikola have unveiled the prototype of their first battery electric vehicle (BEV) for European markets, the Nikola Tre.
The Nikola Tre will be launched at the IAA 2020 commercial vehicle exhibition in Hannover, Germany, with the first units reaching customers in 2021. This is the first step on the path towards the Nikola fuel cell electric model (FCEV), which will be available to customers by 2023.
The vehicle is based on the Iveco S-Way heavy-duty truck launched in July 2019. Extremely well received by customers and industry experts alike, it integrates Nikola´s advanced electric technology and new generation proprietary infotainment system.
The prototype Nikola Tre by Iveco 4×2 tractor is for regional missions, with a range of up to 400km and dynamic performance equal or better than a diesel equivalent model. The vehicle will feature a modular battery system with a total capacity of up to 800kWh, which can be tailored to match different customers’ missions. The electric driveline will deliver 480kW continuous power output with 1,800Nm peak torque.
The vehicle will also be available in two- and three-axle rigid versions, with GCW up to 44 tonnes, for urban distribution and municipality missions.
The Nikola Tre will feature a new infotainment system based on Nikola´s proprietary operating system that integrates infotainment and navigation functions, as well as controls for the bulk of the vehicle´s functionalities. The system’s features include climate control, mirror adjustment, suspension height adjustment, 360-degree camera system, navigation, Bluetooth audio system, comprehensive vehicle settings and admin vehicle diagnostics.
The vehicle leverages Bluetooth low energy technology to create a secure link between the vehicle and the customer’s mobile device, creating a hands-free media experience. This also enables a smart keyless entry system to unlock as the driver approaches the vehicle. The system can even adjust settings such as ride height and climate temperature to driver preference.
Nikola’s fuel cell will be the starting point for the design of the electric battery, so that the Nikola Tre Bev can be converted to fuel cell technology.
