In a significant move to address the rapidly evolving European logistics market, newcomer Flexis has unveiled an innovative range of electric commercial vehicles designed specifically for urban delivery operations. With home deliveries per person expected to double by 2025 and the European last-mile delivery sector projected to reach €60 billion, the timing couldn’t be more crucial.
The venture, backed by automotive giants Renault Group and Volvo Group who have each invested €300 million, alongside a €120 million investment from shipping heavyweight CMA CGM, brings together a powerful combination of electric vehicle expertise, commercial vehicle know-how, and logistics experience.
Flexis CEO, Philippe Divry
“Logistics operators today have to choose between being carbon-free and being economically profitable or operationally efficient. That’s the contradiction preventing them from reaching their targets,” explains Flexis CEO Philippe Divry, who brings 35 years of industry experience to the project. “Flexis will offer that solution to make it possible to go electric and, at the same time, improve profitability and operational efficiency.”
The range comprises three distinct models built on a common skateboard platform: a panel van available in two lengths, a chassis cab variant, and an innovative step-in van. All models feature a revolutionary low floor height of just 500mm, achieved through clever packaging of the 800-volt electrical architecture and compact motor design. This apparently simple feature could prove transformative for delivery drivers making up to 120 stops per day.
Perhaps most impressive is the vehicles’ advanced connectivity. Built on a Software Defined Vehicle (SDV) architecture developed in partnership with tech giants including Google and Qualcomm, the vans essentially function as computers on wheels. This enables seamless integration with existing fleet management systems and allows for over-the-air updates and feature additions throughout the vehicle’s life.
The battery strategy is equally forward-thinking. Using advanced chemistry and structural battery pack design, the vehicles can achieve a full charge in just 18 minutes. Range anxiety should be minimal, with the panel van capable of covering 460km between charges. A novel “delivery button” feature can be configured to automate multiple functions simultaneously, from hazard lights to door operations, streamlining the delivery process.
“We are not here just to propose innovative vehicles,” says Divry. “We are offering a combination of vehicles, services, and a different way of interacting with customers.” This approach appears to be working, with Flexis claiming their solution can deliver a 20% improvement in operational efficiency compared to traditional diesel vehicles.
Image: Flexis
A key strength of the Flexis offering lies in its comprehensive service network, leveraging the established infrastructure of both Renault and Volvo Group across Europe. From day one, customers will have access to an extensive support system through Renault’s commercial network and Volvo’s truck service centres, ensuring maximum uptime for their vehicles. This is further enhanced by a dedicated Customer Operational Centre based in Lyon, which will serve as a central hub for service delivery and customer support. The centre will provide a single point of contact for fleet operators, managing everything from preventive maintenance scheduling to real-time vehicle monitoring. This combination of physical service locations and centralised support demonstrates Flexis’s commitment to keeping their vehicles on the road and maximising operator efficiency.
While production details remain under wraps, the vehicles will be sold under the Flexis brand as well as through Renault and Renault Trucks networks. The team continues to refine the offering through regular workshops with customers at their development centre, where drivers and fleet managers collaborate on optimising the vehicles for real-world operations.
As 2026 approaches, Flexis appears well-positioned to shake up the urban delivery sector with this comprehensive solution to the industry’s pressing challenges. With strong financial backing, proven industry expertise, and a clear focus on customer needs, they might just succeed in making sustainable urban logistics both practical and profitable.
