Navistar International started down the path toward broader
commercial appeal this week with its first delivery to FedEx. The Illinois-based
truck manufacturer fulfilled its inaugural order of the eStar all-electric
truck last week. Navistar is currently accepting orders from commercial clients
for this zero-emission vehicle. The eStar will become more prevalent by the end
of this year with more than 400 units produced by December. This ambitious
production level is possible due to a $39.2 million grant from the Department
of Energy announced earlier this year.
FedEx is already well-versed in Navistar’s eStar technology
due to its use in the Charge Up Route 66 demo tour. The eStar is powered by a
70kW electric motor and an 80 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Navistar and its
partner Modec Limited highlight the small touches that separate the eStar from
traditional trucks converted into all-electrics. These touches include a lower
center of gravity as well as a small replacement battery that can be switched
out in less than a half hour. The eStar’s lower profile not only reduces wind
resistance at high speeds but ensures easy loading and unloading.
The Navistar eStar would not be used by FedEx if it did not produce
eco-friendly results. Each eStar on the road would reduce greenhouse gas
emissions by about 10 tons per year. Navistar is proud to point out that its
all-electric model has been certified by the California Air Resources Board and
the EPA while exceeding federal safety regulations. The eStar will be ideal for
day-to-day routes thanks to a 100-mile range between charges. Navistar limited
the top speed to 50 miles per hour to squeeze more range out of the drive
system. FedEx drivers will be thrilled by the 4,000 pound cargo capacity that
will allow for similar delivery capabilities as traditional trucks.
Navistar is showing the benefits of federal stimulus dollars
aimed at green transportation. This small company parlayed its grant money into
a commercial electric truck that will be used by an international delivery
service. This money helped Navistar expand its facilities in northern Indiana,
hire more employees and expedite the production process to get the eStar on the
road quickly. Navistar worked with Modec Limited as well as A123 Systems and
Zytek Automotive to make the eStar possible. The eStar will not only help FedEx
reduce its fuel consumption and emissions; it will provide a reliable template
for other automakers slow to switch to hybrids and all-electric vehicles.
