Ex-Guard Q4 Newletter

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N E W S L E T T E R

fine electric automobiles. They will be introducing ‘The Beast,’ which is their nickname for their all electric truck, formally called the Tesla Semi. The Tesla Semi is capable of a range of 200 – 300 miles. They are looking going into full production with this vehicle in either 2019 or 2020. Kenworth is currently developing a prototype Class 8 hydrogen fuel cell tractor designed to provide true zero- emissions operation. By using the fuel cell – provided by Ballard Power Systems in Burnaby, British Columbia – to recharge the batteries, the only emission coming out of the tailpipe will be water. The T680 day cab tractor uses lithium-ion batteries to power a dual-rotor electric motor, driving the rear tandem axle through a 4-speed automated transmission. Kenworth’s hydrogen truck is expected to be ready for initial track and on-road testing in the fourth quarter of this year.

Not to be outdone, Freightliner is currently testing its battery-powered ‘Urban Truck’ in Germany. Not only that, they are also testing a semi-autonomous big rig. Yes, technology is moving very quickly. As with every other industry, it is ‘survival of the fittest.’ It will be interesting to see what is next.

Bob Saxton Marketing Director, Ex-Guard Industries

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