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Navistar, Inc. announced during a web conference with the U.S. Department of Energy and FedEx, that it will deliver to FedEx the first full-production eStar™—Navistar’s all-electric commercial truck. The company is currently taking orders for the eStar and intends to deliver 400 units by the end of 2010.
The eStar all-electric truck is the first medium-duty commercial vehicle to receive U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certification as a clean fuel fleet vehicle as well as California Air Resources Board (CARB) certification as a zero emissions vehicle.
This Class 2c-3 electric truck—the first in its category—has a range of 100 miles per charge, making it ideal for many urban applications. When it returns to its home base at the end of the day, it can be plugged in and fully recharged within 6-8 hours.
“For businesses, municipalities and other organizations that demonstrate their environmental commitment, the eStar provides them with a smart option,” said Shane Terblanche, general manager, electric vehicles, Navistar. “We have brought the eStar to market to meet the needs of responsible customers who strive to have a positive impact on the environment through energy efficiency.”
FedEx showcased a prototype of the eStar electric truck during last month’s “Charge Up Route 66” tour that began in Chicago and ended in Los Angeles as part of the Fortune Brainstorm Green Conference. FedEx will evaluate the performance of the eStar vehicle in its fleet as it operates in the Los Angeles area.
“FedEx is continually looking to connect the world more responsibly,” said Mitch Jackson, Vice President of Environmental Affairs and Sustainability at FedEx. “Navistar’s purpose-built electric truck has the potential to assist in making our business more environmentally sustainable and reduce dependence on foreign oil, while ensuring FedEx the reliability necessary to meet our commitment for superior customer service.”
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