Daimler Trucks’ leading U.S. truck brand, Freightliner, unveiled two new fully-electric models in the heavy-duty eCascadia and the medium-duty eM2.
The two new e-trucks join the Mercedes eActros, the FUSO eCanter, the Mercedes Citaro EV city buss and the Thomas Built Saf-T Liner C2 Jouley school bus, giving Daimler Trucks & Buses the broadest portfolio of fully-electric commercial vehicles in the world. Over the course of this year, Daimler Trucks will be handing over a fleet of around 30 EV trucks to its first U.S. customers.
“We are the undisputed global leader of the trucking industry and we intend to remain in that position with electric trucks and buses. We were first-movers on electric trucks and strive to set the standard in each relevant segment. With the formation of our new global E-Mobility Group, we will maximize the impact of our investments in this key strategic technology. Thus, we can pursue the best solutions in batteries, charging solutions and energy management,” stated Daimler board member, Martin Daum.
Freightliner eCascadia gunning for Tesla Semi
The new Freightliner eCascadia is of course based on the Cascadia model, which is the most successful heavy-duty long-distance truck in North America. As a fully-electric model, the eCascadia’s 550 kWh batteries provide a range of up to 250 miles (400 km) and can be recharged to roughly 80% within 90 minutes to cover another 200 miles (320 km). As for power output, it generates 730 HP, so compared to the Tesla semi, it’s down on power (presumably) as well as maximum range (up to 600 miles / 966 km according to Elon Musk).
Meanwhile, the medium-duty eM2 is intended more for local distribution operations and last-mile delivery services. Its 325 kWh batteries give it 480 HP and a range of 230 miles (370 km). You can also charge the batteries to around 80% within 60 minutes, which should give you a range of roughly 184 miles (300 km).
“With our trucks and buses we want to make our customers more succesful. This applies to both electric trucks and conventional powertrains. Hence, we designed the Freightliner eCascadia and the eM2 here in the U.S., according to the specific requirements of our customers. As the undisputed market leader in North America, we know that only trucks and buses that fully meet the needs of transport operators will prevail in the market,” stated Dr Frank Reintjes, head of global powertrain and manufacturing engineering at Daimler Trucks.
