China’s Geely on Monday launched a new electric semi truck as automakers look to bring new technology to the commercial vehicles market.
Geely’s commercial vehicle group, Farizon Auto, is planning to roll out the new Homtruck in 2024 and is targeting international markets too, the divisions CEO Mike Fan said.
Geely’s Homtruck launch comes as a number of automakers from Mercedes-owner Daimler to Warren Buffett-backed BYD have announced their own electric trucks.
Tesla, which announced its own truck called the Semi in 2017, has delayed production of that vehicle for some time.
The Homtruck will have different power options including methanol hybrid and pure electric.
Methanol-powered batteries are a technology Geely has been investing in for some years and some of its models currently have this power option. Farizon said the Homtruck’s batteries can also be swapped out which cuts down on the need to charge.
The interior includes a shower and toilet, single bed, refrigerator, kitchen area and a small washing machine, the company said.
Geely said the vehicle will be able to use some partially autonomous driverless features. And for longer journeys, trucks will be able to communicate with each other to maintain safe speed and distance.
Fan said that Geely plans to introduce autonomous driving in three phases. By 2023, the company hopes to have some partial driverless features with more advanced systems in 2026.
Geely plans to achieve full autonomy in 2030.
