Daimler Truck North America (DTNA) has launched a new program called Battery-Electric Vehicle (BEV) Dealer Certification to ensure that its electric truck customers have a “world-class” experience.
The program is not just a label for dealers to display in their showrooms but a way for DTNA to maintain quality control at its Freightliner dealerships.
This program is relevant because DTNA’s medium-duty eM2 and heavy-duty Freightliner eCascadia trucks are used in over 50 fleets around the United States and have driven more than 4 million electric kilometers. To create this certification program and establish an industry standard, DTNA collaborated with the Freightliner Dealer Council to collect feedback from its dealer network in the U.S. and Canada.
It’s a rigorous and comprehensive program, covering everything from implementing commercial EV charging to establishing thorough safety standards and training. Freightliner dealers are investing a significant amount of money to comply with the program’s standards. These expenditures include building BEV service bays, installing battery storage facilities, and ensuring staff members are adequately trained in all facets of EV sales, service, and parts.
In 2018, Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) started developing commercial electric vehicles (EVs) and has since expanded its product portfolio to include a range of electric vehicles. The lineup includes the Class 8 Freightliner eCascadia and the electric Jouley school bus. In 2023, DTNA added the eM2 to its lineup, which provides a 180-mile range for Class 6 drivers and 250 miles for Class 7 drivers in pickup and delivery applications.
