Proterra to power next-gen DTNA models

Daimler Truck North American (DTNA) and Proterra will extend their cooperation. The latter will supply the batteries for the next-generation Saf-T-Liner C2 Jouley electric school bus from Thomas Built Buses and the MT50e electric delivery van from Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation (FCCC).

In the rather short announcement, DTNA only mentions that Proterra batteries are “designed and manufactured in the United States,” which is essential for a number of subsidies in US states. The two companies started working together in 2018, when they announced that they would develop an electric school bus together – the Saf-T-Liner C2 Jouley.

According to the current press release, “1,000 Thomas Built Buses electric school buses and FCCC MT50e last-mile delivery vehicles [have been delivered] to school districts and fleet operators across North America.” All of them are powered by Proterra’s batteries.

“We are delighted to renew our partnership with Daimler Truck North America to power electric school buses and last-mile delivery vehicles with Proterra battery technology,” said Chris Bailey, acting CEO of Proterra. “As we recharge our mission in 2024, partnership is key to help power the shift to electrification. We look forward to expanding our collaborations with global leaders like Daimler Truck North America to electrify commercial vehicles and industrial applications with our premium battery technology.”

In February, Proterra’s battery business was officially acquired by the Volvo Group for 210 million dollars. The manufacturer is thus in charge of Proterra’s development centre for battery modules and packs in California and a battery assembly plant in South Carolina. Proterra had filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the US in August 2023.

“We are pleased to continue the long-standing proven partnership we have developed with Proterra and welcome their new ownership under the Volvo Group,” said Kevin Bangston, president and CEO of Thomas Built Buses and FCCC. “Since the launch of our all-electric Saf-T-Liner C2 Jouley, our customers have seen great success with the integration of their battery solution in both Thomas Built and FCCC electric vehicles. This success continues to play out as more milestones are surpassed, including more than 1,000 Jouleys delivered and nearly 4 million EV miles driven.”

northamerica.daimlertruck.com