PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA – In a groundbreaking move towards a sustainable future, Daimler Truck Southern Africa (DTSA) has unveiled its first range of fully battery-electric trucks. This pivotal launch aligns with Daimler Truck’s global vision to achieve 100% CO2 neutral trucks and buses by 2050. The exclusive event held in Lanseria saw the introduction of the Mercedes-Benz eActros 300 and 400 models, alongside the FUSO eCanter, marking a significant milestone in South Africa’s transportation sector.
A Leap Towards a Greener Future
The Mercedes-Benz eActros 300, available in 4×2 and 6×2 rigid variants as well as a truck tractor variant, and the eActros 400 6×2 rigid, cater to light and heavy-duty distribution applications. These models are engineered to operate with zero emissions, showcasing DTSA’s commitment to sustainable innovation. Customers can now place orders for the eActros range, backed by comprehensive support from the DTSA team to ensure seamless integration into their operations.
FUSO eCanter: A Pioneer in Electric Trucking
Building on its pioneering legacy, the FUSO eCanter continues its journey in South Africa with extended customer trials. Since its introduction in 2020, the eCanter has paved the way for electric truck homologation in the country. DTSA’s strategic plan involves a series of collaborative trials with customers, deploying six units for three-month periods to evaluate performance and infrastructure requirements for successful fleet integration. Post-trial, the eCanter will be available on an operating lease, further embedding electric trucks in South Africa’s urban distribution networks.
Executive Insights
“The launch of the eActros and the eCanter in South Africa marks a monumental achievement for DTSA,” stated Maretha Gerber, President and Group CEO of Daimler Truck Southern Africa. “While achieving our 2050 goal of 100% CO2 neutral products will require a diverse range of zero-emission technologies, this launch is a crucial first step towards a sustainable future in transportation. We eagerly anticipate customer feedback to enhance our support as we explore new territories.”
Gerber emphasized the importance of industry collaboration and investment in charging infrastructure to make battery electric truck operations viable in South Africa. “We welcome initiatives, both public and private, that contribute to EV charging infrastructure for trucks, as these are essential catalysts for the adoption of electric trucks.”
Technical Specifications
eCanter
- Battery Capacity: 83 kWh (six HV battery packs)
- Range: Up to 100 km
- Charging Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (50 kW DC quick charge), 11 hours (regular charging)
- Transmission: Single-speed
- Gross Vehicle Mass: 7.5 tons
- Body & Payload Capacity: 4.2 tons
- Motor Performance: 135 kW, 390 Nm torque
- Dimensions: Wheelbase – 3400 mm, Overall Length – 5952 mm
eActros 300
- Battery Capacity: 336 kWh (three Lithium-Ion packs)
- Range: Up to 330 km
- Charging Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (160 kW, 20% to 80%)
- Gross Vehicle Mass: 19 to 27 tons
- Body & Payload Capacity: 8.2 to 16.1 tons
- Truck Tractor Gross Combination Mass: 40 tons
eActros 400
- Battery Capacity: 448 kWh (four Lithium-Ion packs)
- Range: Up to 400 km
- Charging Time: 1 hour 40 minutes (160 kW, 20% to 80%)
- Gross Vehicle Mass: 27 tons
- Body & Payload Capacity: Up to 15.4 tons
Both eActros models feature a rigid electric axle with two integrated, liquid-cooled electric motors and a two-speed transmission, delivering a continuous output of 330 kW and a peak output of 400 kW.
As DTSA continues to forge ahead in its quest for zero-emission transportation solutions, the introduction of the eActros and eCanter in South Africa is a promising step towards a cleaner, greener future.
