Electric vehicles are gaining popularity in the freight sector. Earlier this month, Daimler Trucks Asia Taiwan announced the launch of the FUSO eCanter, Taiwan's first electric minivan. Initial buyers include logistics companies like Black Cat Delivery. Transportation carbon reduction experts point out that while the government currently has an electrification plan for passenger transport, buses, cars, and motorcycles, trucks account for approximately 30% of the transportation sector's carbon emissions, prompting a rapid review and related subsidy measures.
The first electric pickup truck hits the market, saving 48% on energy costs compared to diesel vehicles
The image of trucks, with their rumbling engines and pungent diesel fumes, is changing with the advent of the electric vehicle era. Commercial trucks worldwide have been entering the electric vehicle market in recent years. On the 6th, Daimler Trucks Asia Taiwan (DTAT), the general distributor of FUSO commercial vehicles in Taiwan, announced the launch of the country's first electric minivan, the FUSO eCanter. FUSO's "Canter" series is a common sight in Taiwan, having maintained the top market share for several years, earning it the nickname "the nation's truck." The eCanter is available in 5-ton and 8.55-ton models, with S and M battery sizes, offering maximum ranges of approximately 80 kilometers and 140 kilometers, respectively.
At the launch event, Huang Junbin, Director of Commercial Vehicle Product Marketing for Daimler Taiwan in Asia, explained that the eCanter can save 48% in energy costs compared to traditional diesel trucks over the same 10-year lifespan. However, the actual carbon emissions difference is affected by driving conditions and cannot be compared at this time. Huang Junbin added that the eCanter will integrate the "Truckonnect" fleet management system in the future, which will provide information on mileage and power efficiency. This data will be used to calculate the carbon footprint of the fleet, helping it achieve net zero emissions.
Black Cat Express becomes the first buyer, filling the gap in urban logistics.
On the same day as the launch, DTAT also held a delivery ceremony for its first batch of electric trucks. Among the first buyers were Uni-President Express, known for its "Black Cat Delivery," logistics company Yuanhao Transportation, and recycling company Qunyun Environmental Protection. A variety of eCanter models were also on display, including traditional open-top trucks, logistics trucks, and garbage collection trucks. Huang Junbin emphasized that the eCanter's zero-carbon emissions, low noise, and low vibration characteristics make it suitable for last-mile delivery in cities. The new eCanter opens up new options for small electric trucks. As for larger trucks weighing over 5 tons, Taiwan Cement's Taiwan Express, which introduced a 26-ton all-electric large truck as early as 2023, has since been deployed in logistics and transportation services for companies such as IKEA and TSMC.
A key piece missing from net-zero transport: Scholars call for stronger freight decarbonization policies
my country aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, and key strategies include electrification and carbon-free transportation. The Ministry of Transportation has drawn up a plan to achieve full electrification of urban buses and government vehicles by 2030 and a 100% market share of new electric passenger cars and motorcycles by 2040.
Professor Zhang Xuekong of the Center for Advanced Public Transportation Research at National Taiwan University pointed out in an interview that a closer look at Taiwan's road transportation carbon emissions reveals that passenger cars account for over 50%, while trucks contribute approximately 30%. However, recent efforts to reduce carbon emissions in Taiwan have focused on buses and other large passenger vehicles, which only contribute 6%. He noted that the government's current carbon reduction policies for trucks are still limited. Faced with the carbon reduction demands of major international manufacturers and the need for low-carbon transportation of raw materials and products, businesses are increasingly anxious. Zhang Xuekong suggested that a review of options, such as electric trucks or hydrogen trucks, is urgently needed. He also proposed corresponding subsidy measures, including subsidies for vehicles, supporting facilities such as batteries, and maintenance services. He called on the Ministry of Economic Affairs and the Ministry of Transportation to communicate effectively and establish a clear timeline.
Sources: Environmental Information Center
