The trial uses Mitsubishi Fuso’s electric eCanter trucks equipped with Ample’s swappable battery modules. These batteries will be exchanged at Ample's automated swapping stations, set up in collaboration with ENEOS Holdings, for collection and delivery operations across Kyoto City.
When an eCanter enters the swapping station, robots automatically replace the batteries within five minutes. This technology was first showcased at the Japan Mobility Show in 2023, and now Mitsubishi Fuso is testing it on public roads. The trial aims to assess the benefits and challenges of battery swapping and its scalability for future use in Japan.
This initiative is a significant step for Mitsubishi Fuso, which has been a pioneer in electric vehicles since launching the eCanter in 2017. The company is focused on expanding its EV truck offerings, with over 12 million kilometers already driven by eCanter trucks globally. Mitsubishi Fuso plans to commercialize battery-swapping trucks to provide customers with a carbon-neutral alternative comparable to conventional diesel trucks.
The new Fuso eCanter model, introduced in March 2023, offers selectable driving ranges with three battery sizes and 28 models available in Japan, catering to diverse needs. Battery-swapping could further enhance EV trucks by addressing range anxiety, expanding applications, and reducing vehicle downtime.
Moreover, the demonstration includes exploring a business model for battery-swapping trucks through the “FUSO Green Lease,” a comprehensive financial solution provided by Daimler Truck Financial Service Asia Co., Ltd. The companies are also gathering operational data to support the widespread adoption of automated battery-swapping stations, which could be used for both EV trucks and passenger cars, contributing to a decarbonized society.
Source: Mitsubishi
