| Workhorse W56 | |
| Manufacturer: | Workhorse Group |
| Production: | 2023–present |
| Model Years: | 2024–present |
| Body Style: | Step van |
| Layout: | RR |
| Battery: | 210 kW, 690 V LFP |
| Propulsion: | single traction motor |
| Wheelbase: | [1] |
| Predecessor: | Workhorse C-Series |
| Sp: | us |
The Workhorse W56 is a line of class 5 and 6 commercial battery electric vehicles designed and built by Workhorse Group starting in 2023, succeeding the firm's earlier C-Series. It is available with a step van body with a nominal of cargo volume, intended for last mile delivery, or as a stripped chassis or chassis cab configuration intended for completion by coachbuilders with custom bodies.
In 2022, after recalling all 41 C-1000 commercial vans that were completed in 2021, Workhorse announced they would pause nearly all manufacturing activities for the first half of the year while they continued to develop a replacement, the W56.[2] The W56 was unveiled at the NTEA Work Truck Show in March 2023.[3] Production of the W56 began in September 2023.[4]
The driven beam axle is provided by Linamar, which brands it the eAxle system, claimed to have superior performance and efficiency.[5] It has a 690 V motor.
A prototype truck exhibited at ACT Expo in May 2023 was equipped with a 210 kW-hr lithium iron phosphate battery.[6] The estimated efficiency is,[6] and the estimated range is .[3]
The curb weight of the step van prototype is with the standard battery, offering a maximum estimated cargo capacity of, given a GVWR of .[6] The cargo box measures long, wide, and high, yielding a volume of .[1] To save weight, body panels are made of foam core board with a layer of thermoplastic bonded to each side, supported by an aluminum frame. The frame uses cross-members that have a cylindrical cross-section for traction battery protection, which also improves torsional rigidity.[6]
Alternative styles are planned to be available, including a stripped chassis and chassis cab.[7] There will be three models: 158, 178, and 208, apparently referring to the length of the wheelbase, in inches.[6]
The first fleet order for the W56 was placed by Mission Linen Supply for 15 trucks, in December 2023;[8] a second fleet order of 15 trucks was placed through the same dealer in January 2024 to an undisclosed client. Delivery of both orders is scheduled to be complete in 2024.[9]