Freightliner Trucks, a division of Daimler Truck North America (DTNA), literally drove the newest edition of its eCascadia onto the ACT Expo floor today. The new battery-electric Freightliner eCascadia debuted a catalog of new, innovative safety and connectivity features as well.
The combination of ongoing development and demanding testing of several prototypes and customer-tested trucks led to the availability of numerous battery and drive axle options, boasting an average range of 230 miles depending on the configuration. The new eCascadia, which can be utilized for last-mile, local and regional distribution, drayage, and warehouse-to-warehouse applications, will now feature:
- 320-470 hp
- Typical range of 230 miles
- Multiple battery options and maximum capacity of almost 440 kWh
- Recharge of 80% in approximately 90 minutes
- Up to 82,000 lbs max GCW
- Available with single or tandem eAxle
- 116-inch day cab configuration
“Our industry is faced with its biggest transformation ever, and we are determined to help our valued customers convert this challenge into an opportunity,” said Rakesh Aneja, vice president and chief of eMobility, DTNA. “The powerful and efficient eCascadia, with its innovative safety and connectivity features, represents a significant milestone in our transformation journey. Rooted in rigorous real-world customer testing and embedded in a holistic ecosystem, the eCascadia will help ease the electric transition for our customers.”
The in-house developed Detroit ePowertrain is designed for a full integration with the eCascadia for increased power, driving dynamics, and driver comfort. Detroit’s ePowertrain two eAxle options include a dual motor with max torque of 23,000 lb-ft and max power of 395 hp, and a single motor featuring a max torque of 11,500 lb-ft and max power of 195 hp.
There are three available battery options for a range of sizes and zero-to-full charging times starting with 194 kWh (one and a half to three hours), 291 kWh (two to four hours), and 438 kWh (two to six hours). Since the ePowertrain produces less heat than a traditional combustion engine, the eCascadia comes with closed hood vents, and a new grille, further reducing drag by forcing more air around the vehicle.
An in-house developed Charger Management System (CMS) has been integrated into the Detroit Connect portal, which provides reports on depot utilization and data for grant compliance and Low Carbon Fuel Standard credit reporting. CMS also allows for staggered charging of multiple vehicles, charging during off-peak-demand hours, and partial charging.
The eRange prediction tool allows for automatic calculation of the truck’s range, which is displayed during the course of a trip. The tool analyzes multiple data inputs including vehicle parameters, load, weather, traffic, and road gradient, and it also offers a testing capability for “what-if” scenarios, as well as performance analysis. Initial release of the CMS solution will occur in Q4 of 2022, with additional features introduced in 2023.
The release of the series production eCascadia includes the debut of Active Side Guard Assist (ASGA), an industry-first technology that engages at speeds of 12 mph or less to stop trucks from making a right turn when a moving cyclist or pedestrian is detected on the passenger side. ASGA applies automatic braking, along with visual and auditory warnings, and is ideal for busy urban settings. The eCascadia will also be the first version of the Cascadia to come standard with Active Lane Assist, which combines Level 2 automated driving with a suite of driver comfort features.
