DTNA
Daimler Truck launches first electric Freightliner eCascadia in Detroit, paving the way for sustainable logistics

Daimler Truck North America launches first Freightliner eCascadia in Motor City for inbound logistics operation

Nov. 4, 2024
The Freightliner eCascadia will be integrated into DTNA’s operations at the Detroit Logistics Center located in Livonia, transporting critical components between Detroit’s offsite warehouse and the Redford production facility.

Daimler Truck North America launched its first battery-electric Freightliner eCascadia at its subsidiary, Detroit Diesel Corporation subsidiary in Redford, Michigan, to further decarbonze its logistics operations.

The Freightliner eCascadia will be integrated into DTNA’s operations at the Detroit Logistics Center in Livonia, transporting critical components between Detroit’s offsite warehouse and the Redford production facility. The electric truck deployed in Detroit’s shuttle program will be operated by Load One, a freight solutions provider for DTNA since 2018. Their route and the consistent payload are ideal for electric truck use, according to the company. As equipped, the eCascadia has a typical range of 220 miles and will be recharged at the Detroit Logistics Center.

“Detroit’s operation is focused on driving efficiency in today’s market while preparing for growth over the coming years,” Matt Pfaffenbach, Detroit plant manager, said. “Investment in key partnerships, like our relationship with Load One, is critical to maintaining success as our industry transforms in the years to come.”

See also: 2025 new models: Heavy-duty alternative fuel vehicles

Detroit is a vital component of DTNA's manufacturing ecosystem, spanning 38 acres and encompassing 3.2 million square feet of production space. The facility employs nearly 2,800 people in manufacturing, research and development, and support functions, and runs high-volume production on multiple shifts. This includes the eCascadia’s electric powertrain, the same system powering the Load One vehicle as it begins Detroit’s logistics operations.

“Load One is thrilled to work with our long-term partner Detroit and DTNA as we take the first steps together in ushering in a future generation of Class 8 vehicles. Load One continues to work toward  advancement and as a good steward to our planet,” John K. Elliott II, executive chairman at Load One, said.

This initiative aligns with DTNA’s broader strategy to integrate electric vehicles into its logistics network, following implementations in the Pacific Northwest, North Carolina, Arizona, and Mexico.

 

About the Author

FleetOwner Staff

Our Editorial Team

Kevin Jones, Editorial Director, Commercial Vehicle Group

Josh Fisher, Editor-in-Chief

Jade Brasher, Senior Editor

Jeremy Wolfe, Editor

Jenna Hume, Digital Editor

Eric Van Egeren, Art Director

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Improve Safety and Reduce Risk with Data from Route Scores

Route Scores help fleets navigate the risk factors they encounter in the lanes they travel, helping to keep costs down.

Celebrating Your Drivers Can Prove to be Rewarding For Your Business

Learn how to jumpstart your driver retention efforts by celebrating your drivers with a thoughtful, uniform-led benefits program by Red Kap®. Uniforms that offer greater comfort...

Guide To Boosting Technician Efficiency

Learn about the bottom line and team building benefits of increasing the efficiency of your technicians in your repair shop.

The Ultimate Trailer Tracking Technology Checklist for Enterprise Fleets

We understand the challenges you face in consolidating inventory, reducing theft, and tracking revenue. That’s why we’ve created the ultimate checklist to help you evaluate your...