Daimler has revealed that Dandenong-based Victorian Freight Specialists has started a trial with a Mercedes-Benz eActros and will also soon try out a Fuso eCanter.
As the company points out both of the trial battery electric trucks, obviously produce zero exhaust emissions.
Daimler says that VFS, is the largest regional freight provider in Victoria, and that it has a long history of purchasing lower emission trucks, as one of the first customers to purchase the Euro 6 version of the Mercedes-Benz Actros back in 2016.
The company claims that it is now looking at taking the next step and adding fully-electric truck to its growing fleet.
“Sustainability is central for Victorian Freight Specialists and we have always purchased lower emission options where possible, well ahead of government mandates,” said Chris Collins, director of operations for VFS.
“Of course, now we have an opportunity to take that next step and integrate fully-electric trucks into our fleet and we are really excited about this amazing technology,” he added.
Collins reckons it made sense for VFS to trial Daimler electric models.
“We know from experience running Daimler products that they don’t mess about with their research and development and their product quality, so it is only fitting that their electric trucks are the most advanced of those available,” he said.
Andrew Assimo, vice president of sales, marketing and operations for Daimler Truck Australia Pacific welcomed the VFS electric truck trial.
“Chris and his team were early adopters of Euro 6 with our Mercedes-Benz Actros product all those years ago because they valued sustainability and nothing has changed,” Assimo said..
“Progressive companies such as VFS are leading the way with electric trucks and we are excited to see what they think of our remarkable Mercedes-Benz eActros and Fuso eCanter,” he said
Daimler says that both the Mercedes-Benz eActros and the Fuso eCanter are advanced electric trucks that have a raft of features that the company says sets them apart from the competition.
The company reckons that one of the chief differences is the eAxle technology that means the electric motors are located in the drive axle.
Daimler says this means there is no need for a driveshaft linking the rear wheels to the power source towards the front of the truck and that the benefits include reduced energy loss as well as weight savings.
It said that the eActros is available as a 4×2 or 6×2 rigid or a 4×2 prime mover, while Fuso’s eCanter range includes 14 variants, further enhancing its appeal.
