Workhorse Group Inc. has launched initial production of its new Workhorse NGEN-1000, a lightweight battery-electric delivery truck. The manufacturer said the truck’s curb weight of 4,000 pounds is less than half of that of a “traditional diesel step-van” while providing the same 1,000 cubic feet of cargo capacity.

According to Workhorse, that weight reduction coupled with the van’s 100-mile range “will have cost-savings implications that will make the electric-vehicle alternative to traditional fleet delivery vehicles all the more appealing.”

The company also said the lightweight design is what allows for he stated 100-mile range. And by using a smaller battery pack than previous designs, the cost of the vehicle is reduced “significantly.” Workhorse added that the van’s smaller battery pack also reduces the cost of the charging infrastructure for the customer. The NGEN will be available in four cargo sizes: 250, 450, 700, and 1,000 cubic feet of capacity.

The NGEN-1000 is the first in the NGEN series to go into production at Workhorse's Midwest plant. The van boasts a “unique new design with a grill-less front end, making it stand out from its diesel counterparts,” the company noted.

Other key features of the electric van listed by Workhorse include:

• Low floor with 7.25-inch ground clearance, making loading and unloading easier, and entry and egress safer”

• 6,000-pounds carrying capacity, “robust enough for even the heaviest loads”

• Hub motors in front for tighter turning radius than comparable vehicles

• All-wheel drive for “surefooted handling in inclement weather conditions”

• Composite construction to enable a lightweight and rust-free body

• Ergonomic driving position fits drivers from 5'2" to 6'5" comfortably

“For as long as I can remember, we've been discussing what the future of delivery looks like and what role electric vehicles will play in that," said Stephen S. Burns, CEO of Workhorse. "We are proud to say the future is here. With an off-the-lot cost on par with traditional fuel delivery vehicles, and substantial savings from there, we believe the NGEN will forever change the business of delivery as we know it."