Daimler has revealed it has strengthened its position as the major supplier of trucks to giant Sydney port logistics company,ACFS, with the supply of a new battery electric version of the Mercedes-Benz Actros, complementing the other diesel Benz Actros and Fuso Shoguns on the logistics company’s fleet.
Daimler has said that ACFS is now operating an eActros as part of an all-electric container delivery pilot program in Sydney.
The leading logistics provider is claimed to be the first company to run the eActros prime mover in Australia as part of its “ACFS Better Way” program, which it says represents the company’s ‘commitment to sustainability and innovation in the logistics industry’.
The eActros boasts some impressive next generation electric truck technology, including an e-axle, which integrates electric motors into the drive axle of the truck and replaces a traditional driveshaft, delivering more compact and far more efficient packaging with lower weight and better weight distribution.
Daimler Truck Australia Pacific president and CEO, Daniel Whitehead, said the ACFS pilot program is demonstrating the benefits of running an electric truck in Sydney.
“ACFS has a proven track record of striving to reduce its emissions in any way it can, including purchasing Daimler Truck vehicles that meet Euro 6 or equivalent emissions levels such as the Mercedes-Benz Actros and Fuso Shogun,” Whitehead said.
“The all-electric eActros goes a step further and delivers huge benefits in built up areas, producing zero driving emissions and operating near silently. It is a sustainability pioneer, but is also a true workhorse, which the ACFS team is finding out in its daily operations,” said Whitehead.
ACFS Port Logistics chief executive officer and managing director, Arthur Tzaneros, said the pilot program represents an important milestone for the company.
“We are proud to introduce the Mercedes eActros to our fleet and be at the forefront of clean Transport solutions,” Tzaneros said.
“This continuing focus to lead and innovate by piloting the heavy vehicle electric technology not only reflects our commitment to sustainability, but also enhances the service we provide to our customers,” he said.
Tzaneros said that ACFS is looking to the future by integrating trucks such as the eActros into its fleet.
“As we embrace innovative solutions, we are also taking significant steps toward reducing our carbon footprint and supporting the communities we serve. We believe this initiative will pave the way for further advancements and investment in our operations and contribute to a greener future for all,” he said.
Daimler Truck Australia Pacific sales and marketing vice president, Andrew Assimo, said the company is ready to help customers achieve their sustainability goals.
“Daimler Truck offers our customers a complete sustainable truck solution, whether it be low emission diesel or battery electric,” Assimo said.
“As part of that commitment, when it comes to our amazing electric trucks from Mercedes-Benz and Fuso, we can help with everything from selecting the correct specification and route planning to charging infrastructure advice. Each truck comes with a complimentary servicing package and there is a raft of financing packages including guaranteed buyback options,” Assimo added.
Daimler Trucks says that its eActros runs three lithium-ion battery packs with a total capacity of 336kWh and when running with a single trailer, it can operate at total GCM of 36-tonnes.
The eActros also features a five-stage recuperation braking system that works like an engine brake to both spare the service brakes and recoup significant amounts of electricity, which is fed into the batteries.
Daimler Trucks Brisbane and Gold Coast general manager, Aaron Camilleri, said ACFS has been a valued client since 2019 and has always been very clear that decarbonation is akey priority.
“It’s great to see ACFS’ continued commitment to their emissions reduction strategy,” Camilleri said.
