Dandenong-based operator Victorian Freight Specialists has announced it has started an electric truck trial with Mercedes-Benz and Fuso models.
While it has already begun trialling the Mercedes-Benz eActros, it will soon try out the Fuso eCanter.
As Victoria’s largest regional freight provider, VFS has a long history of buying lower emission trucks after being one of the first customers to buy the Euro 6 Mercedes-Benz Actros in 2016.
Now, it’s looking to take the next step and build on its sustainability focus by adding these fully electric trucks 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,” VFS director of operations Chris Collins says.
“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.”
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Collins says it makes sense for VFS to trial the Daimler Truck electric models due to its experience in sustainable transport.
“We know from experience running Daimler Truck 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 says.
Daimler Truck Australia Pacific vice president of sales, marketing and operations Andrew Assimo says the brand is welcoming 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 says.
“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.”
The advanced electric truck models in the Mercedes-Benz eActros and Fuso eCanter both come with a raft of features that make them stand-out options in the local market. This includes the innovative eAxle technology that means the electric motors are located in the drive axle. This means there is no need for a driveshaft linking the rear wheels to the power source towards the front of the truck.
The benefits of this solution include reduced energy loss as well as weight savings.
The eActros is available as a 4×2 or 6×2 rigid or a 4×2 prime mover. Fuso’s eCanter range includes 14 variants.
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