Daimler has finally started the production of its highly anticipated medium-duty electric truck, the Freightliner eM2, at its manufacturing facility in Oregon. Once ready, these electric trucks will be distributed to select commercial leasing firms in the United States and Canada.
Daimler Starts Production of Freightliner eM2 Electric Truck
Daimler's recent commencement of production for the Freightliner eM2, a medium-duty electric truck, represents a significant milestone in sustainable transportation.
This state-of-the-art electric truck is being manufactured at Daimler's facility in Portland, Oregon, signaling the company's commitment to advancing electric mobility solutions.
While the specific release date for the initial production units has not been officially disclosed, Engadget reported that the company plans to eventually make these electric trucks available to handpicked commercial leasing companies operating in the US and Canada.
This strategic distribution approach aims to ensure the efficient integration of the eM2 into commercial fleets across North America. The Freightliner eM2 is powered by the innovative battery-electric Detroit ePowertrain, a cutting-edge electric propulsion system known for its efficiency and reliability.
What sets this electric truck apart is its two-speed transmission system, meticulously designed to enhance energy efficiency on a per-mile basis. According to the company's press release, the eM2's range capability depends on the battery capacity of the specific model.
The class 6 single-motor variant, equipped with a 194 kWh battery, is poised to cover an impressive distance of up to 180 miles on a single charge. In contrast, the class 7 dual-motor version is outfitted with a larger 291 kWh battery, granting it an extended range of up to 250 miles on a single charge.
Freightliner eM2 Electric Delivery Truck in Development Since 2019
The Freightliner eM2 electric delivery truck, a project in development since 2019, achieved an impressive milestone during its testing phase with Penske. Specifically, the vehicle demonstrated its ability to recharge and gain a 200-mile range in just 60 minutes.
However, Electrek reported that it's important to note that this particular test took place four years ago, and the latest announcement did not provide any updates or details regarding the current state of charging times for the eM2.
Access to charging infrastructure is critical in ensuring the successful rollout of Daimler's eM2 trucks. This includes the development of charging stations, an effort that Penske has been actively involved in.
These stations play a crucial role in enabling EV owners to efficiently recharge their vehicles, thereby supporting the adoption of electric transportation.
In a similar vein, Volvo, a direct competitor to Daimler in the electric long-haul trucking segment, has been focusing on enhancing the battery ranges of its electric truck models. The Volvo FE electric truck, which directly competes with the eM2, offers a range of up to 170 miles.
This range, combined with other factors such as charging infrastructure and overall vehicle performance, contributes to the ongoing competition and development in the electric truck industry.
Volvo's electric truck is expected to enter delivery service in the upcoming autumn, further intensifying the competition in the electric truck market.
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