In an unprecedented display of electric vehicle power and engineering prowess, the Iveco eDaily 3.5-tonne van has earned its place in the Guinness World Records. The eDaily claimed the official title for the ‘heaviest weight towed by an electric van’, pulling 153.58 tonnes, firmly solidifying its position as a game-changer in the EV industry.
Renowned for its class-leading 3.5-tonne towing capacity and robust truck-based chassis, the Iveco eDaily has garnered widespread acclaim for its capabilities. However, its latest feat has propelled it to global recognition, surpassing records previously set by all-wheel drive electric cars. The eDaily’s powerful 140kW rear-wheel drive drivetrain made this accomplishment possible, delivering an impressive 400Nm of torque.
The record-breaking event occurred on June 20th, 2023, at Blackbushe Airport in Surrey, which was selected as the record attempt location as its additional runways, surface and gradient met the strict Guinness World Records criteria. All towed vehicles were weighed using precision weigh pads supplied by Micro Weighing Solutions as part of the official Guinness regulations.
The eDaily was hitched to the mammoth Iveco X-Way Strator truck, custom-built for G&B Finch, an Essex haulage company. This specially engineered truck can transport large-scale loads weighing up to 150 tonnes.
The Strator’s trailer was loaded with a Collard Group earth-mover, tipping the scales at over 50 tonnes, and an additional seven tonnes of ballast were added for added challenge. To complete the colossal 153-tonne road train, a fully-loaded Iveco X-Way 8x4 tipper truck and an all-terrain airport fire truck were attached. Mike Parker Design created a specialised tow bar designed to secure the immense weight to the eDaily, and to ensure safety and adherence to the record criteria.
As the event commenced, the van steadily descended the 100ft runway using its “hi-power” mode - fitted to every eDaily as standard - which provides bursts of additional power in demanding towing conditions for the all-electric van.
Guided by Britain’s current Strongest Man, Adam Bishop, the electric van overcame the challenge and crossed the finish line in front of the Guinness World Records invigilators.
Speaking about the achievement, Adam Bishop said: “The van was incredible. The scale of its challenge and what it towed was unbelievable, but it rolled up its sleeves and got on with the job. Amazing!”
Mike Cutts, Iveco UK Light Business-line Director, expressed his pride in the eDaily’s accomplishment, stating, “The Iveco eDaily has made history with this impressive record, reinforcing the strength, durability, and extensive capabilities of the eDaily. With an initial target of 130 tonnes, the eDaily far surpassed record requirements. I would like to thank everyone who came together to make this possible – it was a real team effort.”
The record-breaking event showcased the impressive capabilities of the Iveco eDaily. It highlighted the benefits of its body-on-frame concept and the immediate torque delivery of its electric motor. The achievement sets a new standard for electric vehicles in the commercial sector, demonstrating the potential for electric vans to tackle heavy-duty tasks and embrace sustainable transportation solutions.