Daimler Truck has launched the Next Generation FUSO eCanter.
The zero-tailpipe-emission truck, which will make its UK debut at Road Transport Expo (28-30 June), is built on the same line as its diesel-powered sibling at the Mitsubishi FUSO Truck Europe assembly plant at Tramagal, Portugal. Unlike the previous battery-powered eCanter, which was only offered as a 7.5-tonner, there are 42 derivatives of the latest incarnation to choose from (36 of which will be sold in the UK). This includes GVWs ranging from 4.25 tonnes to 8.55 tonnes, six different wheelbases from 2,500mm to 4,750mm, and two cab widths.
Power comes from a choice of two electric motors, either 110kW for trucks in the 4.25- to 6-tonne bracket, or 129kW for 7.49- and 8.55-tonners. Whereas the previous generation eCanter was powered by a single 81kWh lithium-ion battery, which gave it a maximum range of 100km, buyers of the latest version can choose from one (S), two (M) or three (L) 41.3kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, giving maximum ranges of 70km, 140km and 200km. With the help of Daimler Truck’s eTruck Ready tool, potential customers can determine how many batteries they require, so spec’ing their truck accordingly.
The decision to opt for LFP batteries brings the eCanter in line with the rest of Daimler’s zero-tailpipe-emission truck offerings. With no nickel, cobalt of magnesium content, it’s the more environmentally friendly option. LFPs also have a longer lifespan, require less maintenance, operate over a wider temperature range and are quicker to charge.
The new eCanter supports both AC and DC charging, so giving increased flexibility. Using DC current, charging from 20% to 80% takes approximately 24 minutes for single battery models (S), 26 minutes for the two (M), and 39 minutes for three (L). AC charging takes between 4 and 6 hours, depending on the number of batteries fitted.
One of the downsides to LFP batteries are their size and weight, which each of the eCanter’s Chinese-manufactured battery packs weighing-in at 450kg. This includes the weight of the aluminium casing, and the crash protection cradle they sit within on the chassis.
Unlike its predecessor, the Next Generation eCanter benefits from an eAxle. Integrating the motor with the rear axle allows for a compact driveline, which is how FUSO has been able to produce so many different derivatives. The truck is offered with a choice of mechanical PTOs.
FUSO says the new truck has been designed for a life of at least 10 years, but warranties are considerably shorter than this. Whereas a diesel-powered Canter is covered by a blanket 3-year/200,000km warranty, the eCanter’s warranty is more complicated. The high-voltage batteries are covered for 6 years/200,000km, the electric driveline is 5 years/100,000km and the low-voltage batteries are 3 years/100,000km.
Whereas the first eCanter was either rented or leased, this latest version will be backed by the full suite of Daimler Truck Financial Service funding options, in addition to being sold outright.
Order books are open now, and FUSO claims to have already received 1,000 advanced orders. This equates to 8% of all Canter production in the second half of 2023.
Read the full story, and check out our driving impression in the 22 June issue of Commercial Motor magazine. And For all the latest news and information dedicated to the decarbonisation of the commercial vehicle and road freight sector, check out our sister website FreightCarbonZero.com
