Workhorse launches W56 van with 140 kWh at competitive price and 100-mile range

Workhorse unveils the W56 with 140 kWh, priced at $169k, 100-mile range, and 10,000 lbs of payload, targeting fleets looking to reduce costs.

New W56 configuration: competitive pricing and focus on medium routes

Workhorse has introduced a new configuration of the electric W56 delivery van. This 140 kWh version replaces the larger 210 kWh battery, aiming to serve fleets with daily journeys of around 100 miles.

Drawing attention with its price, the 'Standard' version with a 178-inch wheelbase and composite body is announced at $169,000, offering nominal range per charge for up to 10,000 pounds of payload capacity.

What's new and why it matters

According to Scott Griffith, Workhorse CEO, the model results from listening to customers and balancing range, durability, reliability, and performance with a lower entry price, without compromising fleet needs.

Economic context of the moment

The launch occurs in a context of fuel volatility. Data points to price increases with the national average in the US at $3.98 per gallon on March 25th and California at $5.83 per gallon. Reports of refining impacts in the Gulf have been associated with geopolitical tensions affecting global oil.

Commercial fleets face exposure to price spikes, making an electric option more stable for local operations, where electricity costs are more predictable.

Consolidation and economies of scale

The company emphasizes that the new products and lower prices are the result of synergies obtained from the December 2025 merger between Motiv Electric Trucks and Workhorse. The combined company is working to reduce production costs through economies of scale, supported by a track record of approximately 20 million operational miles.

External view

Expert articles highlight the trajectory of Motiv/Workhorse and the potential to offer more accessible options, while discussing the impacts of public policies on heavy vehicle emissions.

Product summary and impact for fleets

With the 140 kWh version, the W56 positions itself as an option for fleets seeking to reduce dependence on fossil fuels without sacrificing capacity and performance, also acting as protection against price volatility in mixed-fleet operations.

Engagement: What do you think: can electric vans with smaller batteries cover most daily routes without compromising efficiency? Leave your comment below and tell us how this would impact your operation.