IVECO, FPT Industrial and Nikola have recently unveiled the Nikola TRE, the first Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) resulting from the joint venture between the companies.

The vehicle is based on the IVECO S-WAY heavy-duty truck launched last July in Madrid, which has been extremely well received by customers and industry experts alike. The Nikola TRE integrates Nikola’s advanced electric technology and new-generation proprietary infotainment system.

Gerrit Marx, President Commercial and Specialty Vehicles, stated: “The IVECO S-WAY is the bones of the Nikola TRE and marks the beginning of a new journey towards zero-emissions trucking, providing the platform for us to introduce disruptive features that will change the transport industry.”

The vehicle features a modular battery system with a total capacity of up to 720 kWh, which can be tailored to match different customers’ needs. The electric driveline will deliver 480 kW Continuous Power Output with 1,800 Nm Peak Torque. The Nikola TRE will also be available in 2- and 3-axle rigid versions, with GVW ranging from 18 to 26 tonnes.

New-generation proprietary infotainment and navigation system
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 truly 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.

The bridge to fuel-cell electric heavy-duty trucking
IVECO, FPT Industrial and Nikola have adopted a modular approach in developing their electric offering for the European market, which is unique in the industry. Nikola’s fuel cell will be the starting point for the design of the electric battery, so that the Nikola TRE Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) can be converted to fuel-cell technology. With this approach, the partners are taking the long view, bringing both technologies on-stream now to pursue BEV and Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) in their offering in the next few years.

This approach enables the partners to launch the Nikola TRE at the IAA 2020 exhibition and Nikola World 2020, delivering the first units to customers in 2021, while the FCEV will be available to customers by 2023.