In a trend towards electric vehicles for freight transport, Daimler Trucks Asia Taiwan Ltd.（DTAT） announced earlier this month the launch of Taiwan's first electric small truck, the "FUSO eCanter." Initial buyers include logistics companies such as Black Cat Yamato Express. Transportation decarbonization experts point out that the government currently has schedules for electrifying passenger vehicles, buses, cars, and motorcycles. Trucks account for about 30% of carbon emissions in the transportation sector, underscoring the need for a prompt inventory and relevant subsidy measures.

First Electric Small Truck Launched, Saves 48% in Energy Costs Compared to Diesel Vehicles

In the past, trucks were known for their roaring engines and pungent diesel smell, but with the advent of electric vehicles, this perception is changing. In recent years, commercial truck manufacturers worldwide have entered the electric vehicle market. On June 6th, DTAT, the general distributor of FUSO commercial vehicles in Taiwan, announced the launch of Taiwan's first electric small truck, the "FUSO eCanter."

The FUSO Canter series is quite common in Taiwan and has consistently held the top market share position in recent years, earning it the nickname "national truck." The latest introduction includes the 5-ton and 8.55-ton eCanter models, available in two battery sizes: S and M. They offer maximum ranges of approximately 80 kilometers and 140 kilometers, respectively.

The Marketing Director of DTAT in Taiwan stated that compared to traditional diesel trucks, the eCanter can save 48% in energy costs over a 10-year lifespan. However, the actual difference in carbon emissions depends on driving conditions and cannot currently be precisely quantified for comparison.

In the future, the eCanter will integrate the "Truckonnect" fleet telematics management system, allowing for monitoring of routes, energy efficiency, and other information. This system will also enable the use of data for calculating carbon footprints, facilitating fleet carbon neutrality efforts.

On the day of the launch event, DTAT also held a ceremony for the first batch of electric truck deliveries. Among the initial buyers were prominent companies like President Transnet Corp, Mill Shuttle Transport, and recycling company Chyunn Environment Corporation. The event showcased various eCanter models including traditional open-bed trucks, logistics transport vehicles, and garbage collection trucks. Mr. Huang emphasized that the eCanter features zero carbon emissions, low noise, and low vibration characteristics, making it suitable for completing urban last-mile transportation tasks.

The new eCanter model has introduced a new option for small electric trucks. As for larger trucks weighing over 5 tons, Taiwan Cement Corporation's subsidiary, Taiwan Transport, introduced a 26-ton fully electric large truck as early as 2023. It has since been deployed in logistics and transport services for companies such as IKEA and TSMC.

Taiwan aims for net-zero emissions by 2050, with key strategies including electrification and decarbonization of transportation. The Ministry of Transportation has proposed a plan to achieve full electrification of urban buses and government vehicles by 2030, and to have 100% new sales of electric passenger cars and motorcycles by 2040.

Professor Chang from the Advanced Public Transportation Research Center at National Taiwan University pointed out in an interview that in Taiwan's road transportation sector, passenger cars account for over 50% of carbon emissions, while trucks contribute about 30%. He noted that recent carbon reduction efforts in Taiwan have primarily focused on buses and larger passenger vehicles, which only constitute 6% of emissions. He emphasized that the government's policies for reducing carbon emissions from trucks are currently limited. Businesses are increasingly concerned about meeting international demands for carbon reduction from major manufacturers, including ensuring low-carbon transportation of raw materials and products.

The urgent task is to conduct an inventory of options such as electric trucks and hydrogen-powered heavy trucks. Corresponding subsidy measures should be proposed, including vehicle purchase subsidies, infrastructure support for charging or hydrogen refueling stations, and subsidies for maintenance services. It's crucial to urge the Ministry of Economic Affairs and the Ministry of Transportation to communicate effectively and establish clear timelines for these initiatives.

Source: 
Environmental Information Center