Diesel to Electric: Fuso PH previews eCanter light duty truck

Battery electric vehicles have penetrated the passenger car segment in the Philippine market. But pretty soon, more commercial vehicle manufacturers are set to introduce their electric-powered business movers.

Fuso is looking to be that next CV brand. During an exclusive event at Sta. Rosa, Laguna, Sojitz Fuso Philippines has previewed the eCanter light duty truck, showing that they are getting ready to tackle a diverse set of business demands with a zero emissions commercial vehicle.

The eCanter previewed at Laguna was the Extra Super Long Wheelbase model, which features a 124 kWh triple battery pack setup on its dedicated electric CV platform. Instead of simply pulling out a diesel ICE motor mounted at the front midship, Fuso designed the eCanter’s electric motor to be mounted directly with the rear axle to deliver instant power and reduce driveline losses from the usual propeller shaft setup found in combustion-engined trucks.

The dedicated CV platform is also modular to cater other business solutions. There’s a short wheelbase, 41 kWh single battery pack setup for short-range applications, while there’s also a long wheelbase, 83 kWh dual battery pack setup for those who need extra range for the truck. In the right-hand-drive model that was previewed, Fuso says the truck could reach up to an estimated 320 km of range with its setup, while the battery packs are sealed watertight and complies with the strictest electric standards.

Inside, the eCanter also features a modern interior with a full digital instrument cluster. It displays various information like the estimated electric range, the power delivery bar, and the speedometer in a neat layout. There’s also a rear view camera, as well as a blind spot monitor that forms part of the eCanter’s ADAS suite.

In terms of charging, Fuso says the eCanter they will offer to the PH market will come with a CCS2 charger – the most commonly used type of plug in charging stations in the country. For now, Sojitz Fuso Philippines is still in talks on partnering with local EV charging manufacturers to help logistics and other business owners on how to easily transition their fleet into electric.

As for the launch of the eCanter, Fuso PH is looking to introduce the model as early as the first quarter of 2025. Prices and body style options should be available prior to the launch date.