Chinese EV manufacturer has launched its latest electric truck - the 19 tonne ETH8 - into the European market at IAA Transportation 2024.

This latest offering signals the continued march of the Chinese manufacturer into the European market.

Founded in 1995, BYD has grown to become one of the largest producers of electric vehicles in the world, with a presence in over 90 countries across six continents. 

Its latest offering to the European truck market is the 19 tonne BYD ETH8, which is designed for both urban and long-haul journeys and is built on the company’s in-house developed eTruck Platform.

The e-truck has a multipurpose chassis, which can be tailored for various operational needs.

There are two wheelbase options available to suit specific needs, whether for urban delivery routes or more complex transport requirements.

It has a four-speed gearbox, which BYD says is designed to optimise efficiency, helping businesses manage energy consumption without sacrificing performance.

The eTruck is designed by Wolfgang Egger, BYD’s design director, whose previous track record includes award winning designs with Audi and Alfa Romeo.

Egger has incorporated European-style streamlined design elements into the truck to appeal to Europe’s fleet operators.

The vehicle’s exterior features BYD’s distinctive X-shaped front and what it describes as a “diving waistline.”

It also comes with low-energy “Angel Eyes” LED headlights.

The truck’s interior is also designed to maximise driver comfort, catering to a region where there is a serious driver shortage, making driver retention key.

To this end it has a roomy comfortable cockpit and a controls layout designed to minimise driver fatigue, with a 10.1-inch touchscreen display positioned within easy reach, offering clear visibility of vital information.

It also comes with a multifunction steering wheel allowing drivers to safely access various controls without needing to take their hands off the wheel.

The cab also features multiple storage compartments and a sleeping area, making it suitable for long-distance journeys.

The ETH8 powertrain has been entirely developed in-house by BYD. The truck is also equipped with a deeply integrated electric platform, which includes a 5-in-1 motor controller system consolidatingh multiple components into one unit, making for easier maintenance and reducing vehicle downtime.

The e-truck also features an e-Axle, which combines the axle with a two-speed gearbox, allowing for more than 90% energy efficiency from the battery to the powertrain. This enables regenerative braking to help extend the truck’s range.

The BYD ETH8 is powered by iron-phosphate battery technology - a safer, more environmentaly friendly cobalt free offering, and the battery pack can be charged from 20% to 100% in just two hours, providing a range of approximately 250 kilometres.

The truck also offers high safety standards with a body controller system and a Smart Pad touchscreen that provides real-time information on the vehicle’s status, allowing the driver and fleet managers to monitor the vehicle’s performance.

Standard features include an 8-inch information screen, electrohydraulic power steering, and an economy driving mode that helps maximise energy efficiency during operation.

 

 



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