Harbinger, a prominent manufacturer of medium-duty electric vehicles (EVs), has showcased its delivery truck's remarkable performance in challenging winter conditions through a recent video release. The footage highlights the truck's agility and stability on icy roads during tests conducted in New Zealand.
The truck's exceptional handling is attributed to its innovative chassis design. By strategically positioning the heavy batteries within the frame, Harbinger achieves a lower center of gravity than conventional medium-duty trucks. This design element enhances torque and overall handling, enabling the truck to maneuver like a passenger car even on slippery surfaces.
The rigorous winter testing program in New Zealand evaluated various aspects of the truck's performance. Harbinger meticulously assessed the braking system, including traction control, stability control, ABS, and regenerative braking. The company also focused on torque control, aiming to demonstrate the driver's ability to maintain command on ice and snow. Further tests included uphill launches on 25% grades and the automated hill hold feature, which prevents rollback on inclines. Harbinger emphasized "edge case" scenarios, representing extreme situations, to ensure the vehicle's robustness.
John Harris, Harbinger's CEO, underscored the importance of winter testing, particularly for EVs. He emphasized the need to ensure reliable performance on low-traction surfaces and to address the challenges posed by high torque output and regenerative braking in slippery conditions. Specific tests focused on low-adhesion surface control, traction and stability, and regenerative braking performance on ice and snow.
Harbinger acknowledges the impact of cold weather on battery performance and energy consumption for cabin heating. The company utilizes a multi-zone heat pump to mitigate these effects, efficiently warming both the battery and the cabin. Charging in cold weather is not a significant concern, as Harbinger's trucks can be charged even at low temperatures, although charging times might be slightly longer.
By conducting winter tests in both hemispheres, Harbinger accelerates its development cycle. The company offers a diverse range of medium-duty EVs, including walk-in vans, box trucks, recreational vehicles, emergency response vehicles, and delivery vans.
With over 4,000 preorders valued at more than $400 million, Harbinger has gained significant market traction, demonstrating customer confidence in its technology.
