Daimler Truck has introduced its electric truck equipped with autonomous driving technology. Named the Electric Freightliner eCascadia, this truck boasts level 4 autonomous driving capabilities.
The independent subsidiary of Daimler Truck, Torc Robotics, has developed the autonomous driving software, allowing the truck, equipped with advanced sensors and processors, to achieve fully autonomous driving. Level 4 autonomy means that in most situations, the vehicle can operate independently of the driver, although the driver must remain behind the wheel.
The electric Class 8 Freightliner eCascadia truck entered production in 2022 and is currently in use in over 55 fleets across the United States. Featuring the special Detroit ePowertrain propulsion system, the truck offers range options of 250 km, 350 km, or 370 km. Additionally, the battery of the vehicle can be charged up to 80% in just 90 minutes.
Daimler Truck’s engineering team has developed an advanced prototype cooling concept for the computing unit positioned between the driver and passenger seats. Cameras, lidar, and radar sensors are located at the top of the windshield.
Daimler states that the autonomous eCascadia can be used on short and repeatable routes and has tested the truck on highway corridors between freight centers in the United States. The company, which has been developing autonomous truck technology since 2015, aims to enter the market by 2027.
