Mack Defense will showcase its MD6 Electric truck at the upcoming Association of the United States Army (AUSA) 2024 Annual Meeting and Exposition in Washington, D.C., from 14-16 October. The presentation of the electric vehicle highlights the military’s growing interest in electric vehicle technologies for logistics and combat operations.
David Hartzell, president of Mack Defense, emphasised the company’s evolution alongside its military heritage: “Mack has long been associated with the U.S. Armed Forces, providing support on the battlefield since World War I. However, Mack, a 124-year-old company, isn’t resting on its laurels.”
The electric truck’s deployment in commercial applications is providing data that could inform military use. “This experience will allow Mack Defense to utilise these proven subsystems to develop solutions that meet the needs of the U.S. Armed forces,” Hartzell noted.
Technical Specifications
The MD Electric, manufactured in Salem, Virginia, is available in both Class 6 (25,995 pounds GVWR) and Class 7 (33,000 pounds GVWR) configurations. Key features include:
- A 260 horsepower three-phase Permanent Magnet Synchronous motor
- Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide lithium-ion batteries rated at 240kWh
- A 103-inch bumper-to-back-of-cab measurement
- Styling based on Mack’s highway model, the Mack Anthem
Commercial applications
The vehicle is designed for various commercial uses, including:
- Dry van/refrigerated transport
- Stake/flatbed operations
- Dump truck applications
The MD6 model does not require a Commercial Driver’s License for non-hazardous payloads.
The AUSA exhibition is a significant industry event, having attracted over 33,000 attendees and 650 exhibitors from 80 countries in 2023. The organisation aims to be the premier voice for American soldiers and is committed to supporting the U.S. Army.
