Electric Truck Ready For Mass Production

One limitation: the vehicle’s maximum speed is 50 MPH, while this is fine for travel in towns and smaller roads it could be problematic on motorways and roads with a higher speed limit. This maximises the vehicle’s range, meaning it can travel much further with this maximum speed.

While this is the third generation of truck fitted with electrical motors, this is the first model set to be production-ready. Power is transferred to the rear axle by a single-speed transmission.

Depending on the weight of loads being delivered as well as the usage, the vehicle is set to cover around 60 miles from a full charge. 70% of customers with 3.5-7.5 tonne vehicles cover less than 60 miles per day according to Daimler. There are set to be improvements on the vehicle’s range, reaching up to 120 miles by 2019.

The vehicle has 6 battery packs all mounted along the chassis rails. Each battery weighs 110kg, this configuration allows for better balance and adapts to customer requirements according to Daimler.
When asked how this was possible, a representative of Daimler Trucks said “By utilising as much of the base vehicle as possible, engineers have been able to minimise development costs”

Fully charging the vehicle with anything but a fast charger can take 5-6 hours, meaning that you’ll have to stop up for long periods with the vehicle if you run out of battery. Over time we can expect to see improvements to the battery and mileage of the vehicle.

The firm also claim the vehicle can travel from 0-30MPH at supercar-like pace. In terms of how the vehicle looks, it is almost identical to the same vehicle’s diesel model, this has minimised costs during development.
Compared to an electrical car, some HGV drivers could find it jarring to go from the roar of their engine to complete silence and no vibration from the engine. Once lorry drivers get used to it they will feel much more comfortable in the vehicle, making journeys much smoother and peaceful.

With battery costs reducing many drivers are becoming interested to try a more economical option than diesel. Drivers can expect to save an estimated £850 for every 6,200 miles they travel, with costs for maintenance also reduced by around 30%.

This new vehicle still has some improvements required, but it is living proof that this new technology can work in a way that benefits the driver, other drivers and the environment. The vehicle is set for mass production by 2020.

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