DB Schenker gets first eCanter as part of European trial

DB Schenker has added its first UK-based all-electric FUSO eCanter, operating out of Bradford and one of 36 that are being delivered to DB Schenker distribution centres across Europe. 

The eCanter will work in and around the city centre, and is expected to cover up to 90km per day. It has a curtainside body from En-Veco – the specialist electric vehicle arm of bodybuilder Bevan Group – and is fitted with a 1,000kg Dhollandia tail-lift.

DB Schenker fleet manager Dave Shepherd said: “With its compact footprint and impressive manoeuvrability, the eCanter is clearly well suited to inner-city deliveries. Not only does this vehicle offer the reliability and competitive running costs we need, but as legislation moves on, and ultra-low emission zones become more widespread, as well as stricter, it can help us to future-proof our delivery operation.”

Northside Truck & Van will maintain the eCanter in its Bradford workshop, while the truck has been taken on a four-year Mercedes-Benz Finance contract hire agreement.

“This vehicle is one small but important part of a much bigger picture for our business,” continued Shepherd.

“Electric power is a new departure for us, so we’re still working out the most effective way to use the vehicle and will be monitoring its performance very closely. The early signs are certainly promising, though. As well as the obvious environmental benefits, on the evidence of what we’ve seen so far we expect it to prove highly economical to operate.”