The automotive world is full of hidden gems, and one such discovery has emerged from the past. A unique 15-year-old Freightliner electric step van powered by Tesla technology has surfaced on Facebook Marketplace in Los Angeles. This vehicle represents an early experiment in electrification during a time when electric vehicles were still in their infancy. While it may not be fully functional today, this van offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of electric commercial vehicles.
A Legacy of Innovation: The Origins of the Freightliner Electric Chassis
In the early 2010s, Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation (FCCC) embarked on an ambitious project to develop electric delivery vehicles. At the time, FCCC was exploring various forms of electrification, including hybrid systems. The company unveiled a specialized chassis variant based on its MT-45 WIV step van architecture, designed specifically for electric applications. Although FCCC excelled in manufacturing the chassis, suspension, and steering components, it lacked expertise in electric power systems. To bridge this gap, FCCC collaborated with Tesla, which provided the battery and motor technology.
The heart of this electric step van was a 53 kWh battery pack similar to the one found in the Tesla Roadster. Each module contained approximately 2,000 cells, weighing around 300 pounds. These cells, commonly used in laptops, were lithium cobalt oxide type 18650. Charging the van required plugging it into a 220-volt line, which took six to eight hours. Despite the modest capacity by today's standards, this battery pack offered a range of 100 miles—adequate for urban deliveries at low speeds. The electric drive unit, supplied by Enova, produced 120 kW of power, equivalent to about 161 horsepower, though it struggled under the weight of the van's chassis, which had a gross vehicle weight rating between 14,000 and 19,500 pounds.
A Time Capsule of Early EV Technology: Challenges and Opportunities
This Freightliner electric step van serves as a time capsule of early electric vehicle technology. Shortly after the chassis debuted, coachbuilder Morgan Olson crafted a streamlined body that looked more modern than traditional step vans. Unfortunately, this design remained largely conceptual, and future electric vans from Morgan Olson did not follow this style. Today, the van faces operational challenges; it does not run due to issues with the battery system. The listing on Facebook Marketplace mentions that the batteries need individual charging to activate solenoids, indicating that prolonged disuse has taken its toll on the battery pack.
Despite these hurdles, restoring this van could be feasible. The 18650 cells used in the Tesla Roadster are still supported by third-party enthusiasts, making repairs potentially viable. However, practicality remains a concern. The van uses an outdated four-pin charging connector from the Tesla Roadster, requiring adapters for modern charging infrastructure. Moreover, the $60,000 price tag raises questions about its value compared to contemporary electric vans like the Rivian Delivery 500, which offer superior range, power, and warranty support. Yet, for automotive historians or collectors, this van holds immense cultural and historical significance as a rare artifact from the dawn of electric commercial vehicles.
The European Union has introduced a new strategic plan aimed at supporting the automotive industry while maintaining stringent environmental standards. The EU Commission published its Strategic Dialogue, which seeks to provide some relief to manufacturers struggling with electric vehicle (EV) sales targets. However, the decision to uphold the 2035 ban on new combustion engine vehicles has drawn criticism from various stakeholders, including politicians and carmakers. The dialogue includes measures such as extending deadlines for EV market share targets, subsidizing battery production, and enhancing charging infrastructure. Despite these efforts, concerns remain about the feasibility of achieving ambitious EV market share goals by 2030 and beyond.
The automotive sector in Europe faces significant challenges as it transitions towards electrification. The EU mandated a 22% market share for EVs and plug-in hybrids by 2024, but this target slipped to 19.6%, according to the European Automobile Manufacturers Association. In response, the Commission has extended the timeline for reaching the 2025 target, giving automakers two additional years to meet it. This adjustment aims to prevent hefty fines that could cripple an already struggling industry. Moreover, the Commission proposed subsidies for EV sales and infrastructure development, along with support for autonomous driving technologies.
However, not everyone agrees with the approach. German manufacturers advocate for the continued availability of internal combustion engines (ICE) through plug-in hybrids and range extenders, as well as the use of e-fuels—synthetic fuels derived from renewable energy sources. The center-right European People's Party (EPP), the largest political group in the European Parliament, also calls for a technology-neutral stance. Jens Gieseke, the EPP’s lead on automotive issues, welcomed the increased flexibility but emphasized the need for clearer commitments from the Commission regarding the ICE ban.
Consumer groups like BEUC have expressed concerns that easing CO2 regulations could undermine consumer confidence and reduce incentives for manufacturers to produce affordable EV models. They argue that while steps to make EVs more accessible are welcome, providing flexibility in meeting CO2 targets sends mixed signals. Meanwhile, green advocacy groups criticize the plan for potentially weakening clean car rules, suggesting it may hinder Europe's competitiveness in the global EV market compared to China.
Industry experts, such as Henning Dransfeld from Infor, believe that the current targets are overly ambitious and unlikely to be met without significant changes. He advocates for a shift from regulatory mandates to consumer incentives, particularly through leasing programs that can alleviate concerns about residual values. While the extension of CO2 targets offers immediate relief to companies like Volkswagen and Renault, the broader implications of trade policies between the U.S. and EU add another layer of complexity to the automotive landscape.
In conclusion, the EU’s Strategic Dialogue represents a delicate balance between supporting the automotive industry and pursuing environmental objectives. While the extension of EV market share targets and other measures offer temporary relief, the debate over the 2035 ICE ban and the feasibility of ambitious EV goals continues. Stakeholders must navigate these challenges while ensuring a sustainable and competitive future for the European automotive sector.
The automotive world has been given a tantalizing glimpse into Volvo's future with the reveal of its upcoming EX60 electric crossover. This new model, set to debut in 2026, promises to bring significant advancements in both design and technology. The EX60 will be positioned as an all-electric counterpart to the popular XC60, offering a fresh take on compact crossovers. The teaser images, released during a recent video presentation, showcased a partially obscured clay model, highlighting Volvo’s signature vertical taillights. This visual hint suggests that the EX60 will maintain key elements of Volvo’s iconic design language while embracing modern electric vehicle aesthetics.
One of the most anticipated features of the EX60 is its introduction of Volvo’s next-generation SPA3 production platform. This modular architecture aims to revolutionize vehicle manufacturing by enabling the construction of various vehicle sizes on a single platform, thereby reducing production costs. Additionally, SPA3 will incorporate structural battery packs, contributing to weight reduction and further cost efficiency. While specific details about the EX60 remain limited, it is expected to share similar dimensions with its gasoline-powered sibling but will likely come at a higher price point, starting around $60,000. This premium pricing reflects the advanced technology and sustainability benefits offered by the electric model.
The unveiling of the EX60 marks an important milestone in Volvo's transition towards a fully electric lineup. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, this new model symbolizes the brand's commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility. By introducing cutting-edge platforms like SPA3, Volvo sets a positive example for other manufacturers, promoting sustainable practices and efficient production methods. The EX60 not only represents a step forward in automotive technology but also underscores the importance of embracing cleaner, greener transportation solutions for a better future.