BYD reveals electric ETH8 truck for Europe

Auto giant BYD has this week revealed its all-electric ETH8 truck at IAA 2024 in Germany, a zero-emission solution for a range of transportation applications to Europe.

The 19-tonne ETH8 has a multipurpose chassis which BYD says makes it the perfect choice for logistics and sanitation operations, with two wheelbase options for specific needs.

It is built on BYD’s highly integrated e-Truck Platform that has been developed in-house exclusively for electric trucks. This includes an innovative five-in-one controller for optimum performance and efficiency. According to BYD, using just one module makes maintenance much easier, reducing down-time and costs.

The BYD ETH8 has been designed for the European market. BYD says its spacious cabin complements the exterior character, creating a plush driver cockpit that has been ergonomically designed for comfort and operational convenience, with a high-tech interior being the core theme.

The controls and large 10.1-inch display screen are said to be positioned to surround the driver ensuring easy reach and clear visibility of instrumentation. There are also multiple storage options and a sleeping compartment, providing comfort for longer journeys.

The ETH8 uses a large 255kWh Iron-Phosphate battery with a claimed range of up to 250km. Using a DC charger, the truck can be charged from 20 to 100 per cent within two hours, according to BYD. Max speed is 90km/h, while payload is quoted at just under 11-tonnes.

BYD says the ETH8’s four-speed gearbox is perfectly suited for electric trucks, providing the right amount of performance for the best efficiencies, using only moderate power consumption.