Logistics firms trial eCanter electric light duty truck

Daimler Trucks has begun trials of its fully-electric FUSO eCanter light duty truck for the first time in Europe, among several leading logistics firms.

As of yesterday (14 December) companies including DHL, DB Schenker, Rhenus and Dachser have begun trialling the new model for last mile deliveries and operation in urban environments.

FUSO eCanter in operation in Berlin

Unveiled in New York in September, the eCanter is Daimler Trucks’ first fully electric light duty vehicle. The company has set a target for all truck and bus models to offer one additional electric variant in coming years.

The eCanter’s electric powertrain contains six high voltage lithium ion battery packs with 420 V and 13.8 kWh each. In comparison with a conventional diesel truck, it offers savings up to €1,000 per 10,000km on operating costs, according to FUSO.

Marc Llistosella, head of Daimler Trucks Asia, said: “With the FUSO eCanter we are delivering the first all-electric truck in series production to our customers in Europe today. Over 90,000 kilometers of testing in everyday operating conditions secure that we hand over a reliable and economical vehicle to our customers.

“With the FUSO eCanter our customers now operate not only quietly and without locally emitted CO2, they also save money on operating costs. This is the future of urban distribution transport.“