Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV) has initiated trials for its electric light-duty truck, the eCanter, in India. A subsidiary of Daimler Truck AG, the world leader in truck manufacturing, DICV previously announced plans to introduce the eCanter on Indian roads within the next 6-12 months.
The third-generation eCanter will be assembled locally, targeting the e-commerce logistics market. This marks BharatBenz’s entry into the 3.5 to 7.5-tonne truck segment, a market the company had not yet ventured into.
Globally, Daimler Trucks has sold over 2,500 eCanters, which have collectively driven more than 8 million km. Currently assembled in Japan and Europe, India will be the third major market where the eCanter is locally produced.
Satyakam Arya, MD & CEO of DICV, highlighted that the PM E-Drive scheme could significantly accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles in India. This initiative encourages the scrapping of older trucks and promotes fleet modernization, creating a favorable environment for electric trucks. Arya also emphasized that expanding the charging infrastructure under the scheme would be essential in promoting electric vehicle adoption.
The ₹10,900 crore PM E-Drive scheme, launched on October 1, aims to enhance electric vehicle adoption and develop necessary charging infrastructure. Running until March 31, 2026, the scheme replaces the ₹11,500 crore FAME II initiative, which concluded earlier this year.
Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV) is a subsidiary of Daimler AG, focusing on the manufacturing and distribution of commercial vehicles in India. Established in 2012, DICV produces a wide range of Bharat Benz trucks and buses, emphasizing innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric solutions. The company is committed to advancing electric mobility and enhancing the commercial transport sector in India.
