Radial revolution

Radial Imports NZ Ltd is the latest company to turn to FUSO eCanter in its journey to decarbonisation.  

The Auckland-based Yokohama tyres importer and distributor has joined the growing number of global and national brands working with Keith Andrews to adopt FUSO eCanter into their delivery fleet. 

eCanter is the world’s first battery-powered, series-produced, light duty truck. Powered by an 81kWh (420v) lithium-ion, liquid-cooled battery pack, it can travel up to 150km on a single charge  with zero on-road emissions.  

Radial Imports will use its eCanter for metro deliveries around Auckland. 

“The business already owns an electric car and I was impressed with the reduction in running costs, so I was keen to explore how a battery-powered electric truck could benefit us,” says Sam Robinson, Radial Imports general manager. “Eventually I’d like to fully electrify our fleet.” 

Its first eCanter replaces a diesel truck, doing the same job at around a third of the fuel cost and Sam says that early impressions are good. 

“Our driver is really happy. We’ll carry around 100 tyres per trip and, even fully loaded, the truck produces good power and we’re quickly learning how to get the best out of it in terms of battery range. 

“We’ll head out in the morning on a full charge, come back for a top-up, then head out on a second round of deliveries.” 

A fast charger installed back at the company’s East Tāmaki HQ ensures a quick turnaround between trips. 

“We’re glad to be on the path to reducing our fleet emissions and educating ourselves in EV integration,” says Sam. “It’s very satisfying to have the eCanter on the road with our name on the side.”