Diesel van transformed into electric vehicle.

Home > Industry Analysis > Content

【Summary】BEDEO, an electric vehicle supplier and manufacturer, has launched a retrofit solution called the RE-100 Range Extender that can convert existing diesel vans into electric vehicles. The retrofit solution allows organizations with large van fleets to extend the lifespan of their vehicles while transitioning to an electric future. The RE-100 has 117km of electric range and can switch to diesel mode when needed.

FutureCar Staff Oct 03, 2023 4:18 PM PT

Diesel van transformed into electric vehicle.

BEDEO, an electric vehicle supplier and manufacturer based in Farnham, has launched an advanced retrofit solution for existing diesel vans. This solution, known as the RE-100 Range Extender, is part of BEDEO's Reborn Electric range and allows organizations with large van fleets to transition to an electric future while still retaining their vehicles for longer.

The RE-100 Range Extender is designed to be electric first, offering 117km of electric range, making it perfect for 'Last Mile' deliveries. However, it also has an existing diesel mode that can be used for longer trips. The vehicle can switch to electric mode when entering low-emission zones and densely populated areas to eliminate emissions and contribute to decarbonization efforts.

The RE-100 features two in-wheel motors and a battery, all designed, engineered, and manufactured by BEDEO. These in-wheel motors are installed on the rear axle of the vehicle, requiring no suspension modifications to the front or rear. This means there is no loss of ground clearance or load space.

BEDEO gained national attention in 2019 for manufacturing electric vans for major players in the 'Last Mile delivery' market, such as OCADO, DHL, and TNT. Founder Osman Boyner explains that with the Reborn Electric concept, he aims to provide a new business model for an industry balancing cost and sustainability goals.

While electric vans and Euro VI diesel vans still have limitations in meeting market needs and reducing carbon emissions, the RE-100 hybrid model fills this gap. It offers two modes of power - electric and diesel - but the vehicle cannot be operated as diesel within controlled low-emission zones, except in emergencies. Outside of these zones, the driver has control over when to use electric or diesel power.

BEDEO's ability to retrofit their innovative in-wheel motor technology into existing vehicles is a unique proposition. Osman believes that this technology allows for the development of the next generation of retrofit vehicles, without the constraints of a standard e-axle.

The launch of the RE-100 is particularly significant for commercial fleet operators who face various challenges, including the uncertainty of government deadlines for an all-electric future. Osman acknowledges that transitioning to an all-electric fleet is desirable but expensive and wasteful, requiring investments in vehicles and supporting infrastructure.

Osman emphasizes the importance of considering the end-to-end sustainability of vehicles. Replacing vehicles that haven't reached the end of their useful working life, as well as the associated refrigeration units or bespoke fit-outs, is not a sustainable solution. The RE-100 offers a more sustainable option by allowing organizations to extend the lifespan of their existing vehicles while reducing emissions.