The IAA Transportation expo in Hanover, running until September 20, highlights a shift in the electric truck market as Chinese manufacturers enter the European sector. While brands like Sany, SuperPanther, Maxus, and BYD are present, many new entrants still lack established service networks, homologation, and local import structures.
European manufacturers are responding with technical updates. Daimler Truck introduced a new eActros variant with rotated battery blocks to reduce height. MAN and Scania unveiled long-haul electric trucks featuring a seventh battery pack, enabling a range of up to 720 km under ideal conditions due to cell upgrades.
Tesla continues its distinct strategy for the European market, focusing on specific large-scale customers with a payload-optimized 6x4 tractor unit. The company plans to sell its own megawatt chargers directly to businesses, leveraging its existing high-voltage expertise and internal battery cell production capabilities.
CATL has emerged as a critical supplier, with its battery cells or packs powering electric trucks from Mercedes, MAN, Scania, DAF, and numerous Chinese exhibitors. Meanwhile, an alliance of Daimler Truck, Volvo Group, and Toyota is promoting hydrogen technology, aiming for small-series production by 2030.
