It was designed to be more fuel efficient and to emit less carbon dioxide than regular trucks, by being more aerodynamic and of lightweight construction, which also allowed for a smaller engine to be used.

[3][6] The body is a full walk-through design developed by Utilimaster, and offers the buyer the choice of swing-out rear doors or a roll-up unit.

Both UPS and FedEx use the Reach for city delivery work.

Two lengths are available on a single wheelbase, offering cargo volumes of either 540 or 630 cu ft (15.3 or 17.8 m3).

[6] Aftermarket power-train company XL Hybrids announced a hybrid-electric version of the Reach in March 2015 for the Work Truck Show in Indianapolis, using their XL3 Hybrid Electric Drive System.