At the 2024 IAA Transportation show in Hanover, BEDEO, a pioneering force in the electrification of large vans, announced an important partnership with Automobiles Dangel, a leading French manufacturer of light commercial vehicles (LCVs). This collaboration will see Dangel manufacturing and retrofitting BEDEO’s Reborn Electric systems for large vans destined for the French market, marking a significant step in the transition to greener logistics.
This partnership will allow Dangel to market the retrofitted vans under the new brand “DANGEL, powered by BEDEO,” with the flagship product being the Reborn Electric RE-100 Tipper. The vehicle, based on the Fiat Ducato Stellantis X250 platform, showcases the strength of BEDEO’s retrofit technology, which enables businesses to convert their existing diesel-powered fleets to hybrid or fully electric models.
A Pioneering European Debut
The Reborn Electric programme makes its European debut at IAA Transportation, marking a milestone for BEDEO as it expands into key European markets. BEDEO’s Reborn Electric retrofits allow large van fleets to operate with drastically reduced emissions without the costly downtime associated with transitioning to a new electric vehicle fleet.
The full-electric BE models boast a range of up to 248 kilometers (WLTP), depending on battery specifications, while the RE-100 model offers a 117 km electric range with a 600 km range extender for longer journeys. This versatility is crucial for fleet operators navigating cities with low-emission zones while ensuring they can cover long distances between urban centers.
Addressing the Demand for Low-Emission LCVs
This announcement is particularly timely, as a recent McKinsey & Company report highlights that light commercial vehicles contribute 40% of all logistics-related emissions. As governments and businesses strive to reduce their carbon footprints, the demand for electrified LCVs is skyrocketing. France is one of the markets where this demand is most acute, driven by government incentives, including an €8,000 subsidy for fleet owners adopting retrofit technology.
According to Osman Boyner, Founder and CEO of BEDEO, “The French retrofit market for large vans is gaining momentum, and our strategic partnership with Dangel is in direct response to this demand and the need to decarbonise LCV fleets. Dangel’s expertise in LCV transformation makes them the ideal partner to integrate our Reborn Electric solutions into Stellantis-based large vans.”
A Seamless Transition for Fleet Operators
One of the standout advantages of the Reborn Electric programme is its flexibility. The range of vehicles that can be retrofitted is extensive, including tipper vans, refrigerated vans, and even ambulances. This variety ensures that businesses can tailor their fleet conversions to suit specific operational needs.
Furthermore, the partnership leverages Dangel’s strong reputation in the LCV market. Since 1980, Dangel has been converting Stellantis vehicles, such as Citroën and Peugeot models, for off-road use, and now extends this expertise to Fiat and Opel brands as well. The “DANGEL, powered by BEDEO” models will be manufactured at Dangel’s facility in Alsace, ensuring rigorous testing and adherence to quality standards.
Dangel’s Directeur Général, Philippe Hébert, highlighted the importance of this collaboration: “BEDEO’s Reborn Electric range will enable Dangel to offer a complete range of solutions to meet all driveability requirements, from two-wheel drive to 4×4, reaffirming our position as a key partner for both private and professional customers.”
Looking Ahead: Expanding Retrofit Solutions Across Europe
The success of this partnership in France could be a blueprint for expansion into other European markets. With an increasing focus on the circular economy and sustainability, retrofit solutions present a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to purchasing new electric vehicles. The partnership with Dangel, strategically located in Eastern France, gives BEDEO access to a European hub from which it could potentially expand its retrofit offerings across the continent.
BEDEO’s proprietary technology, including in-wheel motor systems and advanced battery packs, sets it apart as a leader in the retrofit market. The company’s proven track record with the Stellantis LCV family, combined with its European Type Approval, positions it well for further growth in the electrification of large van fleets.
A Green Future for LCV Fleets
As the logistics industry continues its drive towards decarbonisation, partnerships like the one between BEDEO and Dangel will play a crucial role in electrifying LCV fleets across Europe. By offering scalable, retrofitted solutions, BEDEO is helping fleet operators transition to electric power with minimal disruption and maximum efficiency. The Reborn Electric programme is a testament to the potential of retrofitting in achieving a greener, more sustainable future for commercial transportation.
