News Blip:
What's The Future Of Heavy-Duty Vehicles?
Thor Trucks Competes with Tesla Releasing Its Prototype of Electric Semi Truck In Efforts To Convert To Electric Propulsion Systems, Which Could Impact The RV Industry.
Editor's Note: This news item was retrieved through Electrek's website via Google.
Thor Trucks, Los Angeles-based startup, recently unveiled its new electric semi truck prototype, the Thor ET-One, on social media and in the press this week. They are trying to bring the heavy-duty electric vehicle to market before the Tesla Semi hits in 2019, with plans to lead the pack in converting other trucks to electric propulsion. However, Thor is a small startup compared to Tesla and it doesn’t have the resources to build a truck from the ground up. This doesn't mean they won't attempt. According to Trucks.com, they are using a modified Navistar chassis, heavy-duty Dana axles, and electric motors from Hydro-Quebec’s TM4. They are reportedly focusing on the battery pack technology to develop an expertise that would enable them to offer conversion packages for existing trucks. What could this mean for the RV industry? With the similarity of these large automobiles to recreational vehicles, it could mean RVs will employ a similar conversion, or these trucks can be transformed into RVs with the proper handy work. No one really knows for sure, but it's exciting to see what technology will bring the public in regards to recreational use.
Electrek writer Fred Lambert relates in his article, "[Thor Trucks] focus is on the ET-One, which they plan to release for $150,000 with 100 miles of range and a full load capacity of 80,000 lbs. They are also planning another option with 300 miles of electric range that will set you back an extra $100,000." On its website, the company is claiming 60% cheaper cost of maintenance per mile, 70% cheaper cost of fuel per mile, and of course, zero emission. Dakota Semler, Thor Trucks co-founder and chief executive, is only 25 years old! Semler has been financing the company through his previous business ventures in real estate and creating a safari at his parents’ wineries.
Read the full article by Fred Lambert on Electrek.
MobileRVing: The Buzz