Daimler Truck cares about the future of the planet. In view of limited resources, the circular economy plays a decisive role. Mitsubishi FUSO Truck and Bus Corporation (MFTBC), the subsidiary of Daimler Truck based in Japan, contribute to this with their “Battery 2nd Life” initiative from February 2025. Used batteries from the eCanter, the successful battery-electric light truck on the Japanese market, will be used in energy storage systems. 

MFTBC will conduct the field test together with the start-up CONNEXX SYSTEMS Corporation, who develop next-generation battery storage systems. Used batteries from the eCanter models are used and repurposed as a power source for the “EnePOND®1 EV Charger“ energy storage systems developed by CONNEXX Systems. These are integrated into the charging stations for battery-electric vehicles.

Reuse of high-voltage batteries brings numerous advantages

The „EnePOND® EV Charger“ energy storage system can reduce the load on the existing power grid. In addition, the fast charging of multiple electric vehicles, even in the event of power outages, will be possible. By repurposing used electric vehicle batteries, the expansion of the charging infrastructure can be accelerated and costs reduced, while extending the lifespan of the battery. 

The initiative is part of MFTBC´s eMobility Solutions package, which provides customers with comprehensive support in the introduction and operation of electric vehicles. Overall, MFTBC´s goal is to establish a circular economy for batteries in order to maximize their material value, reduce overall cost of electric vehicles, and facilitate the shift to battery-electric mobility.

Next steps 

In February 2025, a test charging station will be installed in Muko City, Kyoto, and will be used to charge the city´s official electric vehicles. Later in the year, a test facility for charging vehicles, including electric trucks, is to be installed at the MFTBC plant in Kawasaki. The demonstration will test the practicality of the energy storage systems and develop applications for the reuse of used eCanter batteries to drive further implementation on this basis.