Lion Electric unveils the industry-leading Lion8 Tractor at ACT Expo

By OEM Update Editorial May 22, 2024 6:11 pm IST

Lion Electric Company unveiled the Lion8 Tractor, an all-electric Class 8 commercial truck with the highest gross combination weight rating in the EV truck sector.

The Lion Electric Company, a leading manufacturer of all-electric medium- and heavy-duty urban vehicles, unveiled the Lion8 Tractor, an all-electric Class 8 commercial truck, at the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo, one of the largest conference and trade shows showcasing the most advanced transportation technologies and clean fuels on the market.

“The Lion8 Tractor embodies our commitment to pushing the boundaries of possibility in modern freight transportation,” said Marc Bedard, CEO-Founder of Lion. “We are thrilled to introduce a vehicle that not only meets but surpasses the rigorous demands of today’s transportation needs as it sets a new standard in the EV truck market, combining performance, efficiency, and environmental sustainability. Our purpose-built electric vehicles stand as the cornerstone of our vision for a sustainable future.”

Engineered for unparalleled performance and operational efficiency, the Lion8 Tractor, which is expected to be commercially available mid-2024, emerges as the industry frontrunner with the highest gross combination weight rating (GCWR) in the EV truck sector, boasting up to 127,000 lbs.

The Lion8 Tractor, powered by Lion’s Heavy-Duty battery packs, can travel up to 275 miles and has a battery capacity of up to 630 kWh. It can charge to 80 percent SOC in 1.5 hours, ensuring maximum productivity. Its 6×4 axle configuration with integrated 2-speed eAxles optimizes power distribution and efficiency. The Lion-engineered cab-forward offers optimal driver visibility and maneuverability, making it a new benchmark for electric freight transportation.

The Lion8 Tractor isn’t only strong. It is also intelligent, due to its high-energy-density proprietary 750V battery technology and standard Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) connectivity. Furthermore, technologies like Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and an onboard weighing system improve its safety and operating efficiency.

Lion leads the industry in the development of all-electric medium and heavy-duty trucks, having spent over 15 years on the project. The introduction of the Lion8 Tractor at the ACT Expo demonstrates Lion’s commitment to leading the transition to zero-emission transportation in North America, with the most diverse range of Class 5-8 electric commercial vehicles. Lion has almost 2,000 cars on the road, totaling over 25 million miles (40 million km).

As with other Lion products, fleet clients considering the Lion8 Tractor have direct access to the Lion Customer performance team, which specialises in assisting customers in transitioning to zero emissions and maximising operational performance. The support includes charging infrastructure from LionEnergy, finance help from LionCapital Solutions, and financial support services from the LionGrants team, as well as driver/maintenance/safety training from LionAssistance and patented EV telematics from LionBeat.