In a significant move to develop electric commercial vehicles for global markets, the Mahindra Group and REE Automotive of Israel have signed a memorandum of understanding to combine REE’s corner module and platform technology with Mahindra’s design, engineering, sourcing and manufacturing expertise in a win-win strategic partnership.

REE’s technology integrates the powertrain, suspension and steering components in the arch of a vehicle wheel, allowing multiple body configurations on a single platform, increasing volumes and efficiency while reducing size and weight. It can be used to create a broad range of electric vehicles and autonomous vehicles, light to heavy duty EV logistics and robo taxis.

Speaking on the occasion, Rajesh Jejurikar, Executive Director, Auto and Farm Sectors, said, “The competitive advantages of REE’s corner modular architecture with our experience in conventional vehicle system design, engineering, sourcing ecosystem and significant production capacity, provides a perfect match to deliver exciting zero emission vehicles, including autonomous vehicles, that can meet customer needs as never before.”

The MOU is primarily aimed at global markets with a global volume estimated to grow over time to 200,000- 250,000 units. While REE’s architecture will enhance Mahindra’s capabilities in the electric vehicle segment, REE will leverage Mahindra’s global presence and its unique volume flexibility, as well as its engineering and product development expertise. The partnership will help support Mahindra’s domestic and international volumes.

According to Daniel Barel, Co-Founder and CEO, REE Automotive, “The fundamental structure of the automotive industry is evolving into a mission specific vehicle with modularity being key structured in three layers: the platform providers, the service providers and the data providers. All working together to create new vehicles and new services tailored to customers’ needs in a fast-changing world. REE is here to lead the industry and set the path for future platforms.”

REE’s transformational technology is designed for current and future e-mobility applications, including autonomous vehicles, and offers significant benefits in terms of weight, space and total body design flexibility. The scalability of the platform makes it ideal for any form of electric vehicle such as commercial vehicles, mid-duty delivery trucks, last mile delivery vehicles, passenger cars, taxis and shuttles.