Lion Electric Unveils Class 8 Electric Tractor
“This isn’t just a truck, it’s a powerhouse on wheels,” said Nick Bruni of The Lion Electric Co. unveiling its new heavy-duty electric tractor at ACT Expo.
The Lion8 Tractor features a 6x4 axle configuration with two integrated 2-speed eAxles.
Photo: The Lion Electric Co.
The Lion Electric Company unveiled the Lion8 Tractor, an all-electric Class 8 commercial truck, during the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo in Las Vegas.
The Lion8 Tractor, which is expected to be commercially available mid-2024, offers the highest gross combination weight rating (GCWR) in the EV truck sector, boasting up to 127,000 pounds, according to the company.
“Today we’re not just unveiling a new commercial truck. We're introducing a game-changer in freight transportation,” said Nick Bruni, Lion Electric senior vice president, to reporters in Las Vegas.
“The Lion8 Tractor truck clearly sets a new standard in the EV truck market. We’re combining performance, quality, efficiency, environmental sustainability, and like all of our vehicles, it is purpose-built for electric and to meet and exceed, we hope, the demands of the operators.”
Nick Bruni, Lion Electric senior vice president, introduces the battery-electric Lion8 Tractor to reporters in Las Vegas.
Photo: Jack Roberts
About the Lion8 Tractor Electric Heavy-Duty Truck
“This isn’t just a truck, it’s a powerhouse on wheels,” Bruni said following the unveiling of the truck.
The first of Lion Electric’s vehicles to use its proprietary Heavy-Duty battery packs, a battery capacity of up to 630 kWh provides a range of up to 275 miles. Charging to 80% SOC (state of charge) at max power can be accomplished in approximately 1.5 hours.
The truck features Lion’s high-energy-density proprietary 750V battery system and standard Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) compatibility.
The Lion8 Tractor features a 6x4 axle configuration with two integrated 2-speed eAxles. The Lion-engineered cab-forward design provides optimal driver visibility and maneuverability, according to company officials.
Additional features such as Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and an onboard weighing system further enhance safety and efficiency.
Lion Electric’s Commercial EV Experience and Support
Lion Electric has been working on the development of all-electric medium and heavy-duty vehicles for 15 years, according to the company, and it offers a portfolio of Class 5-8 electric commercial vehicles in North America.
Lion has more than 2,000 vehicles on the road, with over 25 million miles driven.
The first of Lion Electric’s vehicles to use its proprietary Heavy-Duty battery packs, a battery capacity of up to 630 kWh provides a range of up to 275 miles.
Photo: The Lion Electric Co.
Fleets customers considering the Lion8 Tractor have direct access to the Lion Customer Success team, who are experts in supporting the transition to zero emissions. The support includes:
Charging infrastructure with LionEnergy.
Financing assistance with LionCapital Solutions.
Funding support services provided by the LionGrants team.
Driver/maintenance/safety training from LionAssistance.
Proprietary EV telematics with LionBeat.
“The Lion8 Tractor embodies our commitment to pushing the boundaries of possibility in modern freight transportation,” stated Marc Bedard, CEO-Founder of Lion, in a news release. “Our purpose-built electric vehicles stand as the cornerstone of our vision for a sustainable future.”
More Equipment
Atlas Expands Kodiak Driverless Truck Fleet in Permian Basin
Atlas Energy Solutions is expanding autonomous frac sand hauling in the Permian Basin with a second load-out location and plans for 100 driverless trucks by mid-2027.
Read More →
Putting Mack’s Command Steer to the Test
A test drive of Mack’s Command Steer active steering system evaluates how it can make truck driving easier and less tiring.
Read More →
Mack, Volvo Expand DEF Derate Software Updates
The updated software gives Mack and Volvo truck owners more time to address DEF-related issues before the engine derates or the vehicle goes into reduced-speed inducement, following new EPA guidance.
Read More →
Rush, MCT Team Up to Grow Refrigeration Service Network
The joint venture will operate MCT's network of Carrier Transicold dealerships and mobile service locations, with the companies promising greater service capacity and uptime for refrigerated fleets.
Read More →
Cummins Adjusts 2027 Engine Rollout After EPA Proposal
The engine maker will gradually introduce its new Model Year 2027 diesel engines while continuing to offer current models during the transition, citing the EPA's proposed emissions rule changes.
Read More →
Aurora Rolls Out Next Generation of Driverless Trucks for Commercial Freight
Aurora's latest autonomous trucks it's rolling out with International feature lower-cost hardware designed for a million miles as the company expands commercial driverless freight operations across the U.S. Sun Belt.
Read More →
Peterbilt 589 Spotlight: A Close Look at a Custom Working Truck [Video]
There's more to this customized Peterbilt Model 589 and Great Dane refrigerated trailer than chrome and stainless (although there's plenty of that too!) A veteran driver explains the design choices and practical features behind this working truck.
Read More →
Continental Expands Retread Lineup With New ContiTread HDL 5 EP
New long-haul drive retread is designed to improve fuel efficiency, extend tread life, and lower fleets' cost per mile.
Read More →
EPA Proposal Could Ease 2027 Truck Costs and Buying Uncertainty
The proposal doesn't change the tougher NOx standard, but it would revise key implementation requirements that manufacturers say have driven up costs and complicated fleet purchasing decisions.
Read More →
Cummins, Paccar Ease DEF Derates After EPA Guidance
Updated diesel engine software gives truck operators more time to address emissions-system issues while staying compliant with EPA emissions standards.
Read More →