CO2 emission limits, Mercedes-Benz Trucks, Scania, Daimler Buses, Volkswagen

Following its recent announcement of stricter CO2 fleet average limits for cars and light trucks up to 3.8 tons for the years 2027 to 2032, the EPA in the USA has now also set more stringent CO2 limits for heavy-duty vehicles. The new regulations require a significant portion of heavy commercial vehicles to be emission-free by 2032 to achieve the set climate targets. The rules are complex and vary according to the type of vehicle and its intended use. The EPA estimates that about 30% of heavy commercial vehicles will need to be emission-free by 2032 to meet the targets. For short-haul tractors, the estimate is 40%, while it's 25% for long-haul trucks. The EPA emphasizes that the new standards are performance-based and technology-neutral, allowing manufacturers flexibility in their choice of technologies. The goal of the EPA is to avoid up to 1 billion tons of greenhouse gas emissions over the next three decades and generate a net benefit of $13 billion in health savings through the new regulations.

Daimler Truck has introduced the new Actros L from Mercedes-Benz Trucks, which significantly diverges in appearance from its predecessors and aligns externally with the design line of the electric eActros models. With a futuristic ProCabin, improved aerodynamics, and advanced assistance systems, it aims to enhance efficiency on the road, as announced by the company. The ProCabin, first seen on the eActros 600, features an 80-millimeter extended front and additional specific aerodynamic measures expected to contribute to fuel savings of up to three percent. Furthermore, the latest generation of the commercial vehicle engine OM 471, along with innovative safety systems like Active Brake Assist 6 and Active Sideguard Assist 2, is designed to increase efficiency and safety. According to the company, the OM 471 is “consistently focused on reducing the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) without compromising performance, driving dynamics, or driving comfort, aiming for fuel-efficient driving, reduced CO2 emissions, lower operating costs, and higher yields.” More innovations, including the Multimedia Cockpit Interactive 2 with additional digital services, are expected in spring 2025.

Scania has introduced new electric motors and drive systems, specifically designed for various construction and municipal applications. The updated portfolio includes two new versions of the electric motor EM C1-2, with 210 kW and 240 kW of power, optimally suited for urban applications. Additionally, Scania announced a tandem bogie axle for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) designed for dump trucks, hook lifts, and concrete mixers without sacrificing traction or load capacity. The range of Power Take-Off (PTO) solutions has also been expanded. For batteries, Scania, in collaboration with battery manufacturer Northvolt, focuses on prismatic cells specially developed for use in electric trucks. According to Scania, these are characterized by an exceptionally high lifespan of 1.3 million kilometers. Scania plans to assemble the supplied cells into battery packs in Södertälje, expected to hold 416 or 624 kWh.

Daimler Buses plans to more closely intertwine the technological development of its electric buses with that of its electric trucks. Till Oberwörder, CEO of Daimler Buses, said this during a Q&A session with journalists, according to the online portal "electrive".  He sees future potential for synergies in the drivetrain, electronics, battery management, or software. Regarding the placement of batteries – often under the chassis in trucks and frequently on the roof and rear in buses – the company head speaks of "different geometries" that could become more similar. Daimler Buses, according to information from "electrive", plans to share more news on its electrification strategy at its “eMobility Days” later this year. However, it is already known that Daimler Buses intends to launch electric intercity buses by the middle of the decade and electrified coaches by 2030.

Volkswagen has developed an eco-friendly food truck based on the electric ID.Buzz in cooperation with Borco Höhns, a provider of mobile sales vehicle concepts. The vehicle aims to supply workers at the Wolfsburg plant with fresh food while setting new standards for sustainability and efficiency. The vehicle was made from eco-friendly materials like hemp and flax fibers. Heat containers, cooling units, and a powerful battery pack also enable it to deliver a wide range of hot and cold foods directly to the workplace. A first vehicle is already in operation at the Volkswagen plant in Wolfsburg. In the future, the service vehicle could also be used in pedestrian zones or at trade fairs, whether as a barista coffee mobile, snack wagon, or ice cream vehicle, according to a press release by Borco Höhns.

Farasis Energy and the Chinese commercial vehicle manufacturer FAW have announced a partnership focused on the development of semi-solid-state and solid-state batteries for light, medium, and heavy commercial vehicles. The two companies also intend to work closely together on specific issues like long-haul transport, urban logistics, and municipal technology. Further details have yet to be disclosed.