Rheinmetall acquires Dutch startup REEQ to add light hybrid vehicles to its portfolio.

Rheinmetall has acquired the Dutch startup REEQ, thereby expanding its vehicle portfolio to include innovative light hybrid vehicles. At the beginning of March 2024, the technology group's Dutch subsidiary Rheinmetall Defence Nederland B.V., which is part of the Vehicle Systems Division, acquired 100% of the shares in the Dutch start-up REEQ. Rheinmetall is thus expanding its portfolio of lightweight tactical vehicles and also taking the step towards hybrid technology with a fully electric drivetrain in a military vehicle.
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Currently, REEQ's vehicle portfolio consists of an Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV), a side-by-side buggy and a quad, all three with the same fully electric drive train (Picture source: REEQ)

With its vehicles, REEQ has developed a new generation of mobility that combines tactical transport with a mobile energy source (microgrid) and is fully prepared for autonomy. The technology was developed and is produced in the Netherlands.

Currently, REEQ's vehicle portfolio consists of an Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV), a side-by-side buggy and a quad, all three with the same fully electric drive train (www.REEQ.com). Through the acquisition of REEQ, Rheinmetall can serve the Dutch and European markets in the field of light tactical mobility, both manned and unmanned, in combination with a microgrid solution. Rheinmetall's industrial strength and the innovative power of a start-up complement each other. Within the Rheinmetall Group, REEQ retains its status as a start-up in the field of development. The further development and series production of these vehicles will also take place in the Netherlands.

With this acquisition, Rheinmetall is responding to the many calls from Dutch politicians and defense leaders to contribute with industrial strength and specialization to the operational user and strengthening of the defense industry. With the development and production from the Netherlands, the strategic autonomy and the Dutch position in the field of military electrification and autonomy in the international defense industry have also been strengthened.

Located in the city of Ede, Rheinmetall Defence Nederland B.V. is part of the Vehicle Systems Division and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH. 

REEQ is a Dutch start-up and has been in existence since 2018. In that year REEQ carried out a first innovation project regarding electromobility in the military sector on behalf of the Dutch Ministry of Defence. In later years, REEQ has developed further in this field of experience.

The modular powertrain design presents two distinct configurations: Full Electric and Diesel Electric Hybrid, each tailored for specific operational requirements and sustainability objectives (Picture source: REEQ)

REEQ hybrid quad

The modular powertrain design presents two distinct configurations: Full Electric and Diesel Electric Hybrid, each tailored for specific operational requirements and sustainability objectives. This versatility in design enables adaptability across a range of applications, ensuring efficient performance whether in urban environments or extended operational scenarios.

Full Electric configuration

The Full Electric variant is propelled by a dual-motor setup, each delivering 30 kW of power, resulting in a combined output of 60 kW. This configuration employs a single-speed transmission system, optimized for electric vehicle efficiency, eliminating the need for complex gear changes and enhancing reliability. The vehicle is capable of reaching a top speed of 85 kilometers per hour (kph), a performance metric that balances the requirements of urban mobility and energy efficiency.

With a 32 kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery pack, the Full Electric model achieves a notable range of 200 kilometers on a single charge. This range is particularly suited for daily commutes, urban delivery services, and short-range operations, minimizing the need for frequent recharging. The choice of a 32 kWh battery is a strategic compromise between vehicle weight, cost, and performance, ensuring an economical and environmentally friendly mode of transportation.

Diesel Electric Hybrid configuration

The Diesel Electric Hybrid variant integrates the efficiency of electric propulsion with the long-range capability of diesel fuel. It features the same dual 30 kW electric motors as the Full Electric model, supplemented by a diesel engine. This hybrid setup maintains the single-speed transmission characteristic, simplifying the drivetrain while ensuring seamless power delivery.

One of the standout features of the Diesel Electric Hybrid is its extended range of up to 1000 kilometers, facilitated by the combination of diesel fuel and a 16 kWh battery pack. The battery alone provides up to 100 kilometers of purely electric range, catering to zero-emission zones and urban environments where minimizing pollution is paramount. Beyond this, the diesel engine takes over, offering an extensive operational range suitable for long-distance travel without the need for frequent refueling or recharging stops.

Both configurations exemplify the modular powertrain's adaptability, catering to a spectrum of transportation needs from fully electric, zero-emission urban travel to hybrid long-distance journeys. This flexibility not only enhances vehicle utility across different scenarios but also contributes significantly to reducing the carbon footprint, aligning with global sustainability goals.

The Full Electric variant is propelled by a dual-motor setup, each delivering 30 kW of power, resulting in a combined output of 60 kW (Picture source: REEQ)

REEQ's hybrid quad displayed at NEDS defense exhibition, in the Netherlands (Picture source: Army Recognition)

Defense News March 2024