Fiat Professional has introduced its first-ever three-wheeled electric vehicle – the Tris – in Africa and the Middle East.

Focused on tasks such as micro-transport and last-mile delivery – think Takealot, Woolies and Amazon deliveries, for example – the Tris has a 90 km range, and will hit the market as an “affordable, ultra-light commercial vehicle”, says the Italian manufacturer.

“Tris is easy to charge thanks to its integrated charging system and built-in 220 V plug, allowing hassle-free recharging from any standard domestic socket,” notes the company.

The made-in-Morocco vehicle can be charged from 0% to 80% in 3.5 hours, reaching a complete recharge in 4 hours and 40 minutes, using a standard domestic plug.

It is powered by a 48 V electric motor delivering 9 kW (peak power) and a maximum torque of 45 Nm, which sees it reach a top speed of 45 km/h.

Fiat is part of the Stellantis group.

Stellantis South Africa confirms that the Tris is on the cards for introduction in the local market, but could not provide a timeline for its unveiling.

The Tris will be available in three configurations – chassis-cabin, flatbed and pick-up.

It is 3.17 m in length, and has a 3.05-m turning radius.

The cargo area offers around 2.25 m2 of load space and the ability to accommodate a standard euro pallet.

The vehicle weighs one ton, and has a maximum payload capacity of 540 kg.

Inside the Tris has a 5.7-inch digital cluster displaying driving information, including distance-to-empty and battery level.

Fiat says the three-wheeler meets European homologation standards, incorporating three-point seat belts, front LED lighting with ignition-activated low beams, a reverse buzzer and a washer tank.

“Tris is more than just a new vehicle, it’s a breakthrough in how we think about urban mobility,” says Fiat CEO Olivier Francois.

“As cities grow and the need for clean, accessible transport becomes more urgent, we saw an opportunity to offer something radically simple and profoundly useful.

“Tris answers that call – providing independent workers, small businesses and underserved communities with a cost-effective, zero-emissions tool to move forward.

“With its debut in the Middle East and Africa, Tris is set to transform last-mile mobility and open new doors to economic empowerment and social inclusion.”

Sales of Fiat’s “other” half-tonner, the Strada bakkie, were discontinued in South Africa in 2012, but it is still available in selected markets abroad.