Hino partners on battery electric truck chassis

Hino Trucks has signed a distribution agreement with Hexagon Purus to exclusively distribute a complete battery electric tractor. The vehicle will utilize Hexagon Purus’ proprietary zero-emissions technology, including battery systems, auxiliary modules, power modules and the vehicle-level software and is developed to operate on Hino’s XL 4x2 tractor cab chassis.

Hino Trucks announced it will distribute an all-electric version of its XL 4x2 tractor cab chassis, using an e-powertrain from Hexagon Purus. (Photo: Hino)

During the ACT Expo, Hino Trucks displayed an early development prototype of the vehicle. Production is projected to begin the last part of 2024 and will be distributed and serviced exclusively through select qualifying dealers within Hino Trucks’ U.S. network.

“Earlier this year, we debuted two new electric vehicles - the Hino Class 5 M5e cab over and Class 6 L6e conventional model,” said Glenn Ellis, president of Hino Trucks. “Recent regulations address the need for further reductions in emissions for the transportation sector in the U.S. and will ultimately drive future demand for several classes of zero-emissions commercial vehicles.

“Our exclusive distribution agreement with Hexagon Purus expands Hino Trucks’ capability to distribute BEV’s in both the medium- and heavy-duty space as we continue to invest in BEV adoption as the landscape continues to evolve.”

Hino said the new BEVs produced by Hexagon Purus will have the same reliability and features as conventional Hino Trucks. While production specifications are not yet released, targeted applications will see a full day’s use on a single charge.

“Hino has been an important zero-emission technology development partner for Hexagon Purus in North America for several years, and as a development partner in Hino’s Battery Electric Vehicle program, we are thrilled to continue building on that strong relationship in the years to come,” said Todd Sloan, executive vice president of Hexagon Purus.