Tool and equipment hire specialist Speedy Services has taken delivery of its first two Fuso eCanters, both with an operating range of more than 62 miles on a single charge, ample for its urban delivery work.
One of the 7.5 tonners is based at a depot near Whitehaven, Cumbria, which supplies contractors working at the Sellafield former nuclear power and fuel reprocessing site, while the other works from a branch in Warrington, where it serves a client base comprised largely of building firms.
The eCanter’s electric drivetrain employs six 13.8 kWh lithium-ion batteries with a total power output of 82.8 kWh – 66 kWh usable – while its permanent-magnet motor delivers 129 kW (180 hp) via a single-gear transmission in the rear axle.
Speedy’s fleet of more than 1,000 vehicles includes 50 at 7.5-tonnes Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW).
The new eCanters are the subject of a contract hire agreement with Daimler Truck Financial Services and fitted with plant-carrying platform bodies by Bevan Group.
These have dropsides incorporating the Black Country bodybuilder’s patented Safe-T-Drop system.
Aaron Powell, Speedy’s Fleet Director, said: “We already have around 150 electric vans on our fleet but these eCanters are our first battery-powered trucks at 7.5 tonnes.
“With an exceptionally high body and payload allowance, compact footprint and tight turning circle, the diesel Canter has proved to be well suited to our demands.
“The battery-powered version combines the same advantages with a smooth and quiet electric driveline that requires no gearchanges so is even easier and more comfortable to drive.”
