Detroit ePowertrain to Power Freightliner Electric Trucks

Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) announced the proprietary Detroit ePowertrain will power the upcoming Freightliner eCascadia and Freightliner eM2. The update is part of Daimler Trucks’ global platform strategy to establish a uniform basic architecture for their broad line-up of battery-electric vehicles around the globe.

DTNA also announced plans for a $20 million dollar investment in the Detroit manufacturing facility, which will serve as the North American source of Detroit ePowertrain components.

Initially, the Detroit ePowertrain will offer an eAxle design operating at 400 volts and be offered in two variants suitable for a variety of commercial vehicle applications. The single motor design is rated at 180 horsepower, delivering maximum torque of up to 11,500 lb.-ft. of torque, while the dual motor design offers up to 360 horsepower and 23,000 lb.-ft. of torque.

The Detroit ePowertrain will be mated to the choice of three battery offerings for the eCascadia and eM2, including a 210 kilowatt hour (kWh) version, a 315 kWh version, and a 475 kWh version. Battery packs are comprised of arrays of lithium-Ion prismatic cells.

In Detroit’s first ePowertrain offerings, the maximum range specifications will exceed 230 miles on a full charge for the medium-duty eM2 and 250 miles for the Class 8 eCascadia tractor.

“The combination of Freightliner and Detroit has been delivering an incredible experience to our valued customers for over four decades,” said Rakesh Aneja, head of eMobility at DTNA. “An integrated ePowertrain from Detroit respects that legacy and moves us into a new era for the industry by improving operational efficiency while simultaneously eliminating tailpipe emissions.”

The Freightliner dealer network will continue to provide sales, support and service for the expanding portfolio of Detroit engines, transmissions, axles, safety and connectivity technologies, and ePowertrain systems and battery packs.

Initial production of the Detroit ePowertrain is expected to begin in late 2021. The start of production for both Freightliner models begins in 2022.