Steyr Automotive to produce electric trucks for SuperPanther in Austria

The companies already presented the eTopas 600 electric tractor unit at the IAA Transportation last year, said to be especially tailored to the European market. While there are no additional details in the current press release, the partners stated at the presentation that the model will be equipped with LFP batteries with an energy content of 621 kWh, allowing a range of 500 kilometres.

The eTopas 600 is based on an 876-volt architecture and offers 394 kW continuous and 692 kW peak power in its twin-motor configuration. The DC charging output is said to be 2x 330 kW, meaning that two CCS charging ports are installed that can charge in parallel. SuperPanther estimates the charging time at less than 38 minutes from 20 to 80 per cent battery charge level.

Moreover, the two companies announced the launch of a truck product family called eEmerald last September, consisting of three models with different drive systems, ranges and cab configurations. However, there are no further details at this point. But the companies did already sign a letter of intent for collaboration with DHL during the trade fair.

The rather short press release only states that the contract will see Steyr’s manufacturing expertise combined with SuperPanther’s electric drive technology for high-performance trucks in Europe. Both companies emphasise their ambition to meet the increasing demand for electric commercial vehicles in Europe and to accelerate the transition towards sustainable heavy-duty transport.

There is some (albeit very limited) information on the Chinese company’s European website. It lists four core technologies, namely “highly integrated eAxles with on-demand power output and full-stack software control,” as well as an integrated thermal management system, a 900V platform, and a “Chassis Domain Controller with latest EE-Architecture enables integrated dynamic control and digitalization.” It also notes that the truck’s battery will be integrated into the chassis. Furthermore, SuperPanther says that its “eTrucking Ecosystem” will feature super-charging and battery swapping. However, the company does not go into detail.

Manfred Eibeck, Deputy Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Steyr Automotive, stated: “Steyr Automotive highly values its strategic partnership with SuperPanther. We will combine Steyr’s experience in vehicle manufacturing and its modern production capabilities with SuperPanther’s cutting-edge expertise in the development of electric drive systems.”

The Austrian company emphasised that “particularly noteworthy is the professionalism of all parties involved. Our joint determination to focus on problem solving and rapid project completion was and still is crucial.”

In addition to the agreement with SuperPanther, Steyr Automotive reported further positive business developments. Manfred Eibeck explained: “This partnership is one of several positive signs in the business areas of Steyr Automotive. Our plastic parts painting business, for example, is in the process of hiring around 80 new employees. Incoming orders for our MUT superstructures for waste collection and street sweeping are also developing positively.”

Steyr Automotive, headquartered in Steyr, Austria, focuses on contract manufacturing for commercial vehicles and special-purpose applications. The company has been expanding its portfolio towards electrified vehicle production for several partners in Europe. SuperPanther’s collaboration with Steyr Automotive adds another electric truck project to the manufacturer’s industrial operations.

SuperPanther is based in Yangzhou in the Chinese province of Jiangsu and describes itself as a pioneer in the field of NEV technologies (NEV stands for New Energy Vehicles and is a collective term for BEV, FCEV and PHEV in China). The company aims to work with global partners “to drive the innovation and adoption of electric heavy-duty trucks.

steyr-automotive.com (press release), superpanther.eu (company website)