Introducing the Extended Wheelbase W56: Meeting Industry Needs with Innovation and Efficiency - Workhorse

Introducing the Extended Wheelbase W56: Meeting Industry Needs with Innovation and Efficiency

Every fleet manager knows the struggle of finding a vehicle that meets all their operational needs. What works for one route may not work for another, and the need for customization is paramount. At Workhorse, we’ve listened closely to these challenges and responded with a versatile solution: the W56 with a 208-inch wheelbase. This extended wheelbase version offers extra capacity, along with the flexibility and efficiency that modern fleets require.

Innovation that Matters: Enhancements in the W56 Extended Wheelbase

The extended wheelbase W56 introduces our second-generation step van body, designed to meet the demanding requirements of fleet operators. Spanning 22 feet and offering an impressive cargo volume of 1,200 cubic feet, this new variant is set to redefine what’s possible in zero-emission delivery vehicles. The W56 with an extended wheelbase is not just a larger version of its predecessor; it represents a leap forward in innovation and adaptability.

“We’ve added over one hundred refinements to this new variant of the W56, designed to provide enhanced efficiency and easier upfitting. These include improved service access, additional charge port location options, new entry and cargo door options, and a revised rear box structure. Modular accessories such as doors, lighting, and lift gates support a wide range of commercial applications. We believe this next-generation electric vehicle sets a new standard for efficiency and versatility.”

Josh Anderson, Workhorse Chief Technology Officer

These refinements are not just technical upgrades; they are thoughtfully designed features that address real-world challenges faced by our customers. Improved service access means less downtime and more productivity. Additional charge port location options offer greater flexibility in various operational settings. New entry and cargo door options, along with a revised rear box structure, ensure that our vehicles can be tailored to the specific needs of different industries.

Insights from the Field: Driving the W56 Extended Wheelbase

Our journey to create the extended wheelbase W56 began with listening to our customers. Fleet managers and operators who have experienced the technical superiority of the W56 platform, and the excellent service and support provided by the Workhorse team, shared their need for a larger vehicle. The 208-inch wheelbase W56 is our response to those needs, retaining all the features that have retaining the features that have been well received in the 178-inch wheelbase version.

Designed for the Demands of Today and Tomorrow

The 208-inch wheelbase W56 is designed to meet the rigorous demands of the commercial vehicle industry. With a payload capacity of up to approximately 10,000 pounds and a range of up to 150 miles, it’s built to handle the toughest jobs. The ergonomically designed cabin prioritizes driver safety and comfort, ensuring that even the longest work shifts are manageable and productive. As we look to the future, we remain dedicated to advancing the transition to zero-emission commercial vehicles. The extended wheelbase W56 is a significant step forward in this journey. By providing a larger, more versatile electric vehicle, we are helping our customers reduce their environmental impact while maintaining the high standards of performance and reliability they expect from Workhorse.

W56 Extended Wheelbase: Ready for Production

Standard production of the new, extended wheelbase W56 is set to begin in Q3 of 2024 at our Union City, IN assembly complex, alongside the 178-inch wheelbase W56, which launched in Q3 of 2023. Initial customer deliveries of the 208-inch wheelbase W56 are expected in Q4 of 2024.

Contact Us to discuss the perfect zero-emission solution for your business needs.

Read the full press release here.