Mitsubishi Fuso Pioneers Public Road Electric Truck Battery Swapping in Kyoto with Ample's Automated Stations

Mitsubishi Fuso Pioneers Public Road Electric Truck Battery Swapping in Kyoto with Ample's Automated Stations
Image credit: Electric Cars Report 

Mitsubishi Fuso’s Vision for Decarbonizing Transportation

Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation is advancing its commitment to decarbonizing transportation by launching a demonstration of electric truck battery swapping on public roads in Kyoto, Japan. This initiative is a crucial step in Mitsubishi Fuso's strategy to expand the use of electric trucks, building on the success of the eCanter, which has been in operation since 2017. With over 12 million kilometers already logged by eCanter trucks globally, Mitsubishi Fuso is now exploring battery-swapping technology to offer more customers a reliable and flexible option for transitioning to carbon-neutral logistics.

Battery Swapping Demonstration with Ample Technology

The demonstration involves Mitsubishi Fuso’s electric light-duty eCanter truck, equipped with swappable battery modules developed by Ample. These batteries will be exchanged at Ample’s fully automated swapping stations, which have been deployed in collaboration with ENEOS Holdings. The eCanter will undergo real-world testing on public roads in Kyoto, focusing on collection and delivery operations. When the eCanter enters the swapping station, robots automatically replace the batteries within a target time of just five minutes. This technology was initially showcased at the Japan Mobility Show in 2023, and now Mitsubishi Fuso is testing its viability in everyday operations.

Exploring the Potential of Battery Swapping Technology

Through this demonstration, Mitsubishi Fuso, along with its partners, aims to identify the benefits and challenges of battery swapping. The insights gained will be critical in assessing the scalability of the technology for widespread use in Japan. The project is not just about the technical feasibility of battery swapping but also about understanding the complete business model, including the potential integration with leasing products like "FUSO Green Lease." This comprehensive financial solution, provided by Daimler Truck Financial Service Asia, includes maintenance, insurance, and operational expertise, streamlining the transition to electric trucks for businesses.

The Future of EV Trucks with Battery Swapping

Launched in March 2023, the new model of the Fuso eCanter offers selectable driving ranges with three different battery sizes and 28 models available in Japan, catering to various applications. The introduction of battery-swapping capabilities would further enhance the flexibility and practicality of EV trucks, addressing concerns about driving range and significantly reducing vehicle downtime. As technology evolves, the latest swappable batteries can be introduced, ensuring that users always have access to the most up-to-date battery technology. 

Building Infrastructure for a Decarbonized Society

The collaboration between Mitsubishi Fuso, Ample, and ENEOS Holdings also focuses on gathering the operational experience needed to popularize fully automated battery swapping stations as a new energy infrastructure. Ample’s stations are capable of swapping batteries for both EV trucks and passenger cars, making them a versatile solution for reducing downtime and promoting the widespread adoption of zero-emission vehicles. This initiative is a critical component in Mitsubishi Fuso's broader goal of contributing to a decarbonized society through innovative, sustainable transportation solutions.