According to a Mack press release, this solution is in line with Mack's commitment to offer customers sustainable solutions for all Class 8 freight segments. Pioneer will be the first to deliver an all-in-house electric platform using Mack's proprietary electronic axle and Proterra batteries.

Mack made the announcement at the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo, April 28 to May 1, at the Anaheim Convention Center. The company also publicly introduced the Pioneer diesel Mack.

“Mack is proud that we not only introduced the Mack Pioneer, our most fuel-efficient and aerodynamic highway truck, but just three weeks later we are now also announcing that we will produce a Mack Pioneer battery-electric vehicle (BEV),” said Jonathan Randall, president. “Mack has never rested on its laurels. We are celebrating our 125th anniversary this year, so we have both the legacy of Mack behind us, as well as the historical proven innovation that Mack has contributed to the trucking industry. We are proud to be leaders in sustainable transportation solutions.”

Mack Pioneer Electric
The Mack Pioneer Electric will be available as a Day Cab or 44” Short Sleeper, and is intended for Regional Haul, Drayage, Hub-and-spoke operations. The zero-exhaust-emissions version of the Mack Pioneer will be equipped with the new proprietary Mack e-axle, which includes the latest electric drive technology and will be powered by the latest generation of Proterra batteries. Proterra is part of the Volvo Group with offices in California and South Carolina, and its products are designed, manufactured and assembled in the USA.

“The Proterra H2-23 battery has been rigorously tested in-house to ensure the batteries can withstand the most demanding of environments, along with ensuring that the batteries charge quickly,” Mack said. “The compact battery pack is designed with advanced active and passive safety features to mitigate risks and ensure optimal on-road performance.”

According to a press release, Proterra is conducting rigorous testing of its battery systems to ensure that they meet the high safety, efficiency and durability requirements required for heavy commercial vehicle applications. Proterra's experience is based on many years of testing and practical operation of batteries.

As part of these tests, mechanical tests are conducted for resistance to shock, vibration, deformation and structural features are analyzed; environmental impacts in extreme conditions typical of commercial vehicles are assessed; heat propagation, safety and electrical characteristics, as well as resistance to improper operation are studied.

In addition, the Proterra team collaborates with the Mack Vehicle engineering group to verify the reliability and performance of battery packs during comprehensive vehicle testing, including extreme conditions modeling, durability testing, and reliable operation.

Most Connected Truck

“The Mack Pioneer will be the most connected Mack truck ever, featuring a substantial increase in remote diagnostics and over-the-air software update capabilities,” Mack said. “The new MyMack smartphone app will enable drivers to remotely check truck status and control lights and HVAC systems.”

“Mack designed this truck with driver comfort, safety, connectivity and aerodynamics in mind,” said Fernando Couceiro, vice president of highway trucks. “We built this truck from the ground up, creating a solid structure, off of which the Pioneer BEV will be built.”

RonaldPlett, Pixabay