Dana Inc. and Workhorse Group Inc. announced that they are working on the design, development and production of a city delivery vehicle featuring Dana’s Spicer Electrified integrated e-Drive axle.

“Workhorse’s extensive development background and manufacturing experience in the EV space provide the industry-leading capabilities we sought in a strategic partner,” said Mark Wallace, executive vice president of Dana and president of Dana Commercial Driveline Technologies. “With our 20 years of electrification proficiency and multiple electrified products already in the marketplace, the integrated e-Drive axle solution leverages proven competencies that will enhance the Workhorse electric vehicle architecture to deliver maximum efficiency at a reduced system weight.”

According to Dana, the Spicer Electrified integrated e-Drive axle delivers substantial efficiency for its city delivery duty cycle while offering a weight savings of 388 lbs., allowing higher payload and battery capacity. Its integrated design allows for more chassis space to position batteries inside the frame rails and accommodate features such as side steps, Dana added.

“Our last-mile delivery EV platforms are based on our years of learning and road-proven electrification expertise. We look forward to enhancing our EV offerings with Dana’s leadership position in drivetrain and propulsion technologies,” said Steve Burns, chief executive officer of Workhorse. “This alliance uniquely positions us to jointly develop sustainable solutions that will encourage city delivery fleets to go electric and feel confident in the vehicle’s performance and cost of ownership.”