Japan / USA / Hong Kong - Electric commercial vehicle manufacturing start-up, Cenntro Inc based in Freehold, New Jersey, (owned by Cenntro Electric Group Ltd based in Hong Kong*), announced that it has received a customised 500 vehicle order for its last mile e-van (Cenntro Metro MR) for the Japanese market. The vehicles will be altered slightly to fit the narrow streets of Tokyo and Osaka. Delivery will start in Q1 2025 with production set to take place in Zhejiang, China. The company views this as a pivotal milestone that not only reinforces its presence in Japan but also sets the stage for additional orders and expanded market share.

In terms of performance, the Metro MR offers a maximum speed of 85 km/h (approximately 53 mph) and a range of up to 176 km (about 109 miles) on a single charge. It is powered by a 21.5 kW lithium-ion battery system. The vehicle's payload capacity is up to 650 kg (1,433 lbs), and it has a turning radius of 4.2 meters, enhancing its manoeuvrability in urban environments.