Truck news across the globe is making waves this week in the zero emissions sector, from hydrogen trucks to battery advancements.
MAN to launch hydrogen-combustion trucks
MAN Truck and Bus is taking an ambitious step forward in its truck production, announcing its intention to launch a series of hydrogen combustion powered trucks in 2025.
By 2025, this initially planned series of around 200 MAN hTGX units is expected to be delivered to Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Iceland, and selected non-European countries.
The company says that this model will provide a zero-emissions option for transporting heavy freight across the construction, tank transport or logging sectors.
The initial axle configurations of the MAN hTGX, 6×2 and 6×4, are expected to allow for high payloads and maximum ranges of up to 600 kilometers.
The H45 hydrogen combustion engine used in these trucks will have a power output of 383 kW or 520 hp. Refueling the vehicle with compressed hydrogen (CG H2) at 700 bar and a tank capacity of 56kg should take less than 15 minutes, MAN says.
Daimler opens parts warehouse
Daimler Truck Australia Pacific has opened a new parts warehouse to support its Mercedes-Benz, Fuso and Freightliner truck brands as well as parts division Alliance Truck Parts.
30,000 square metres in size, the facility is based in Truganina, west of the Melbourne CBD. It had been used previously as a shared facility with Mercedes-Benz passenger cars.
Some of the features of the new warehouse include:
- 20,000sqm of floor space
- Five star sustainability rating
- Solar array capable of producing 125,000kWh annually
- 45,000 litre rainwater tank
- EV charging stations
- Four recessed loading docks
- Weather-protected loading and unloading area with 3300sqm awning
- Pallet storage up to 10m in height at a high-clearance section
- Ability to despatch up to 1500 parts per day
Head of Daimler Truck Overseas Andreas von Wallfeld, DB Schenker Australia and New Zealand Cluster CEO Craig Davison and Daimler Truck Australia Pacific CEO and president Daniel Whitehead were on-hand to open the new facility.
Whitehead says that the new warehouse will give Daimler customers increased service and will also meet the company’s future sustainability needs and goals.
“This dedicated truck and bus parts warehouse is at the centre of our commitment to our customers across Australia and New Zealand,” he says.
“It will allow us to better meet their specific needs, which are very different to those of passenger car customers.
“It was a great opportunity to specify a design that incorporated a raft of environmental elements ranging from double-glazed windows to an impressive solar power array.”
Innovative battery makes waves
Chinese battery manufacturer CATL and bus maker Yutong Trucks have unveiled an innovative battery for electric buses and trucks that promises a lifespan of up to 15 years or 1.5 million kilometres, as reported by CNEV Post.
This battery is designed to deliver maximum performance without degradation over the first 1,000 cycles. At the same event, Yutong also introduced a power battery with a ten-year lifespan and a range of one million kilometres.
If this battery becomes regularly available in electric trucks worldwide, it would put heavy electric vehicles more on par with the lifespan that electric cars currently enjoy.
Isuzu offers utility for Allied Express
National logistics company Allied Express has enjoyed Isuzu’s offerings, which have helped its fleet offer the versatility it needs for a number of job.
Managing director Michelle McDowell says that while there isn’t necessarily a perfect delivery truck, Allied’s subcontractors seem to prefer the fleet of Isuzu trucks that the company can offer.
“Our fleet consists of a wide variety of trucks, because we do such a gauntlet of different delivery types,” she says.
“Reliability and presentation are very important for Allied Express as our customers put their trust in us to deliver the product on their behalf… it is important for all drivers to keep their vehicles well-presented and for them to be proud of their work.”
Jack Singh is one of Allied’s subcontractors driving Isuzu. While he primarily does metro runs hauling pallets through Sydney, he occasionally ventures regionally.
“I bought the late 2022 model of the FSR 140-260 from Dwyers Truck Centre,” he says.
“It’s a fantastic truck, I wanted this specific body length and size which makes it perfect for my everyday routine.
“I’ve got a six-year warranty on this new truck and a service agreement from the dealer.
“This means that if I get a job overnight, I just have to put the keys in the ignition and away I go and I know that I’m covered anywhere in Australia with the nationwide warranty.”
