Úvod
MAN Truck & Bus has entered a transformative phase with the launch of series production of electric trucks, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of transportation and logistics. This development could significantly influence logistics by promoting sustainable freight transport solutions.Historic Launch in Munich
The commencement of electric truck production was celebrated at MAN’s Munich plant, where Alexander Vlaskamp, CEO of MAN, along with Michael Kobriger, a board member responsible for production, officially kicked off the initiative. This launch allows for both diesel and electric trucks to be produced on the same line, smoothly merging traditional and modern methods.“The future of MAN begins now,” declared Vlaskamp, emphasizing how significant this moment is for the company. This initiative strives towards a vision for emission-free goods transport on a local scale, fostering a commitment to carbon neutrality by 2050. By manufacturing both types of trucks together, MAN also enhances production efficiency.
Investments and Goals
The total investment for this electric truck program is around €400 million, aimed at transitioning their conventional truck offerings to battery-electric models. The range of these vehicles spans from 12 to 50 tons and includes a variety of uses, from refuse collection to long-distance transportation.- Investment: €400 million
- Payload Range: 12 to 50 tons
- Vehicle Types: Waste collection, long-haul trucks
According to Vlaskamp, the objective is to deliver the first 1,000 electric trucks by the end of the year, which could lead to CO2 savings comparable to that of a small city, vastly improving urban air quality.
Integration of Technology
The strategic integration of electric and diesel truck production involves significant advances in manufacturing processes. Kobriger highlighted the flexibility this approach offers regarding market demands and production planning.Streamlined Production Lines
Currently, the production capacity holds steady at around 100 trucks a day, regardless of propulsion type. Each truck requires approximately eight hours to assemble. This functional structure allows for tailored production, where electric and diesel trucks can be built in response to specific order requirements.Production Capacity | Time per Truck | Daily Output |
---|---|---|
100 trucks/day | 8 hours | 100 trucks |
The assembly line integrates both vehicle types, ensuring that combustion engine trucks receive conventional components while electric models are equipped with battery systems, enhancing logistical workflows while minimizing downtime.
Market Response and Orders
Before commencing full-scale production, MAN delivered a preliminary batch of nearly 200 electric trucks that have already accumulated close to two million kilometers of real-world use across Europe. This successful trial has led to around 700 orders, indicating a robust interest particularly within the automotive logistics sector.Electric Truck Features
The focus on electric trucks particularly resonates with the logistics industry due to features such as:- Ultra-Lowliner Design: A unique tractor with a fifth-wheel height of only 950 mm, aiding electric transport.
- Kapacita baterie: Options for NMC batteries providing total capacities up to 534 kWh.
- Long Range: Capable of traveling up to 740 kilometers on a single charge.
These advancements position MAN’s electric trucks as highly suitable for automotive logistics, known for requiring environmentally friendly solutions due to stricter emissions regulations.