Daimler Truck AG has started the production of the Freightliner eM2 at its subsidiary Daimler Truck North America LLC (DTNA).

The battery electric medium-duty truck is designed for pick-up and delivery applications.

Rakesh Aneja, head of eMobility at DTNA said: “The start of production for this versatile truck marks another important milestone on our journey to a zero-emissions product line.”

The Freightliner eM2 is being manufactured at DTNA’s truck plant in Portland, Oregon.

The first production units in the US will be delivered to multiple transportation firms, including Ferguson, Hogan Truck Leasing, Inc. and Penske Truck Leasing.

In Canada, the first units will go to Brossard Leasing and Day & Ross.

The eM2 is built on the Freightliner M2 106 Plus platform.

It features a proprietary battery electric Detroit ePowertrain. Additionally, it has a class 6 single-motor model provides up to 190 continuous horsepower, a 194 kWh battery, and a typical range of 180 miles (290 kilometres) on a single charge.

Mr Aneja added: “Our partners and dealers are looking forward to introducing the Freightliner eM2 to their customers, and we are excited to see it in use by customers and fleets.”