Rollout of the first electric scoop truck, promoted as a “sweet collaboration” between Ben & Jerry’s and electric vehicle maker Rivian, took place during the South by Southwest (SXSW) music festival in Austin, Texas, March 7-15. Following the event, the truck hit the road make its way to pop-up gatherings across the USA.
Built on the Rivian Commercial Van platform, the mobile ice cream scoop shop has a range of 161 miles between charges. Operational GHG emissions can be reduced by 50% or more compared to internal combustion alternatives, according to the manufacturer.
“Collaborating with the Ben & Jerry’s team to build the next generation of electric scoop trucks has been an incredible experience. It’s one of those projects that just makes the team smile,” said Brian Gase, senior director of prototype development at Irvine, California-headquartered Rivian.
“Working with Rivian, an industry leader that is committed to sustainability, is an ice cream dream come true,” said Sean Slattery, Burlington, Vermont-based Ben & Jerry’s integrated marketing project lead in the United States. “Rivian has helped us reduce our reliance on fossil fuels in a small way, while making things a little bit cooler – which, as an ice cream company, is extremely difficult to do.”
