Fuso unveils next-gen electric eCanter

FUSO has unveiled its second-generation eCanter light-duty electric truck range, expanding the line-up with up to 80 variants that address a more diverse range of logistics applications. 

Among the key updates is a new modular battery system, which enables operators to select three different driving ranges based on wheelbase and application.

The new modular battery concept means vehicles can be equipped with a single battery offering 80km of range, two batteries offering 140km, or the maximum three battery option extending range to 200km.

Another benefit of the modular battery system is the ability to configure energy storage requirements to the specific transport task, maximising driving range without hindering axle weights and resulting payload capacity.

The battery pre-conditioning system will also heat batteries through a timer setting during AC charging, meaning the truck is ready to go once charged.

Beyond multiple battery configurations, there will be no shortage of application-specific options as Fuso plans to offer up to 80 variants for overseas markets. 

Alongside the current 7.5-tonne gross vehicle weight (GVW) option, buyers will now be able to choose from a car-licence suitable 4.0-tonne variant right through to 8.0-tonne options.

Wheelbase options have been expanded, too, ranging from 2500mm up to 4750mm, and a new wide cab (2130mm) option is added alongside the standard-width cab (1700mm).

An electric power take-off (ePTO) unit has been added to the new model, enabling auxiliary items like tipper, crane, or refrigerated body to be added – expanding application options further.

Fuso has adopted an eAxle electric drive system in the new Canter, integrating the motor with the rear axle to offer a more compact powertrain solution, though final power figures have not been revealed. 

The previous-gen eCanter offered up a stout 135kW/390Nm of silent grunt, which was ample given the electric motor’s instant torque delivery, so if the new generation offers more it will be a bonus.

Regenerative braking, which offers a familiar engine-braking drive experience, will be controlled at four different levels in the new model. 

From the outside, the next-generation eCanter has been redesigned with a futuristic take on the Fuso ‘black belt’ front motif, the same ‘electric’ blue accents, and LED front and rear lights.

Inside the cab, various comfort and tech upgrades have been made including a lower dash, additional vertical space, and a new 10.0-inch infotainment screen.

The tech extends to integration of a new Truckonnect telematics solution, with EV-specific functionality added.

One such function is the eRange feature that displays remaining range and battery capacity, while making this information available remotely on the Truckonnect web portal so that fleet managers can monitor energy usage from the depot.

Safety tech gets a significant bump, too, with many of the features being truck-specific solutions, adding to the eCanter’s inner city appeal.

Fuso has given the eCanter advanced safety tech like active sideguard assist, active brake assist 5, driver attention monitoring, intelligent headlight control, and back eye camera system.

The Japanese manufacturer has taken its electric ecosystem to the next level, with its end-to-end eMobility Solutions support system. The eMobility Solutions consist of charger and installation services, eConsulting solutions, battery life cycle management, and eDigital services. 

In the five years since the original eCanter launched, Fuso says the models sold around the world have travelled a combined six million kilometres.