QUINCY, Ill. - REE Automotive Ltd. (NASDAQ: REE), a pioneer in electric vehicle technology, and Knapheide, a leading North American manufacturer of work truck bodies, have announced the completion of the first upfitting of REE's P7-C Class 4 demo electric chassis cab with Knapheide's KUV body. This milestone marks the arrival of REE's innovative by-wire chassis technology in the U.S. market.
The collaboration between REE and Knapheide integrates REE's fully by-wire electric vehicle technology with Knapheide's KUV body, which is designed to enhance organization and accessibility for technicians. The upfitted vehicle is set to be showcased at the NTEA Work Truck Week in Indianapolis on March 5, 2024, at a Knapheide distributor event.
Tali Miller, Chief Business Officer of REE Automotive, emphasized the significance of the partnership, saying " With REE™s first of its kind fully by-wire vehicle technology and Knapheide™s proven excellence with work truck bodies, we believe that REE and Knapheide will be able to provide the right body and equipment solutions for vocational fleets across North America."
Chris Weiss, Vice President of Engineering for Knapheide, also expressed satisfaction with the collaboration, highlighting their commitment to a seamless upfit process and customized solutions for fleet owners.
REE's proprietary by-wire technology, which has been certified in the U.S., eliminates the need for mechanical connections by incorporating critical components such as steering, braking, suspension, powertrain, and control into a compact module positioned between the chassis and the wheel. This approach results in one of the industry's flattest electric vehicle platforms, allowing for more space for passengers, cargo, and batteries.
The company's platforms are designed to be future-proof and autonomous-capable, with a focus on low total cost of ownership (TCO) and reduced time to market for fleets transitioning to electrification. The P7-C upfitting with Knapheide's KUV body is a demonstration of how REE's technology can be integrated with existing commercial vehicle solutions to meet the needs of vocational fleets across North America.
This announcement is part of REE's broader strategy to commercialize its electric vehicle platforms and to foster relationships with Tier 1 suppliers and strategic partners.
The information for this report is based on a press release statement from REE Automotive Ltd.
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