Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation (FCCC) and Proterra, which specializes in heavy-duty electric transportation, are collaborating on an enhanced, production-ready version of FCCC’s all-electric MT50e delivery truck chassis for 2020.
The MT50e will feature California-based Proterra’s efficient battery system featuring 226 kWh of energy capacity and a zero-emission drive system, FCCC said. The all-electric MT50e will feature a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 16,000 to 23,000 pounds, with no reduction in cargo volume capacity. The vehicle is designed to go 125 miles and fully recharge in about three hours with DC fast charging.
“The new MT50e blends the efficiency and performance of an electric vehicle with the undisputed strength and ruggedness that’s made FCCC the most reliable chassis on the market,” said Jeff Sather, president and CEO of FCCC. “The MT50e comes with industry-leading, 24/7 support and builds on our heritage of technological innovation to propel both us and our customers into an era of zero emissions for last-mile delivery vehicles.”
The MT50e is designed to combine the reliability and durability of FCCC’s products with the efficiency and performance of a factory-installed, fully integrated electric power system, FCCC maintained. Launched as a prototype at the 2019 Work Truck Show, the MT50e is the first of several planned commercial electric vehicles from FCCC for use in a variety of applications.
“Fleet operators are looking to electrify delivery trucks today and there is growing industry interest in a high-performance electric chassis with an energy-dense battery system,” said Proterra CEO Ryan Popple. “The MT50e offers fleet operators a leading vehicle platform they’re familiar with, combined with proven electric vehicle technology and expertise from Proterra.”