Deauto Brings FOTON e Aumark Electric Truck to Malaysia

Deauto has added the FOTON e Aumark to its truck lineup in Malaysia, offering an electric option for urban waste collection and other transport operations. The 7.5-tonne truck is imported as a fully built unit (CBU) and is currently configured as a compactor truck for waste collection in urban areas.

Deauto has been a FOTON distributor for four years. According to Vincent Hoo, the company’s Chief Operating Officer, customer enquiries for this type of vehicle led Deauto to introduce the e Aumark in a waste collection configuration.

Electric trucks are well suited to operations that follow fixed routes and return to base regularly. For waste collection businesses working in busy urban areas, the e Aumark offers an option to reduce fuel use and simplify daily operations.

One Chassis, Multiple Applications

Although the current model is configured as a compactor truck, the e Aumark’s rigid chassis can support different body types. Potential applications include urban logistics, refrigerated transport and other urban sanitation work.

The truck has a rated power output of 15 kW and a peak output of 30 kW. Deauto also has the capability to assemble vehicles locally and plans to introduce completely knocked-down (CKD) kits when demand reaches a suitable level.

Lower Running Costs for Daily Operations

The e Aumark can be charged overnight, helping operators avoid fuel stops during working hours. Drivers who have tested the truck have reported that it is easy to handle. Electric trucks can also have lower maintenance costs because they have fewer mechanical components and do not require engine oil or gearbox oil changes. Lower road tax is another potential benefit for operators.

However, the initial purchase price of an electric truck is higher than that of a comparable internal combustion engine vehicle. Deauto therefore encourages customers to assess the total cost of ownership (TCO), including energy, maintenance and other operating expenses, rather than comparing purchase prices alone.

Safety, Range and Charging

The e Aumark comes with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), an anti-slip regulation system (ASR) and an anti-lock braking system (ABS). Driver and passenger airbags are available as options.

The truck offers a driving range of up to 200 km. With fast charging, the battery can be recharged in about 90 minutes, according to the supplied vehicle information. It uses a new-generation CATL battery designed to improve safety and reliability.

The model has also undergone testing covering more than 300,000 km to assess its reliability and reduce the risk of thermal runaway.

Service Support for Electric Truck Operators

Deauto is preparing its service network to support the needs of electric truck owners. Selected workshops are being upgraded with the tools and equipment required to maintain electric vehicles. The company is also stocking commonly needed spare parts to support customers.

Although the e Aumark is new to Malaysia, the model has already been operating in other markets. Deauto can draw on the vehicle’s existing service history to identify the parts and components most likely to be needed locally.

Hoo believes this is a good time for transport operators to begin exploring vehicle electrification. For businesses with predictable routes and suitable charging arrangements, electric trucks can offer a way to manage long-term operating costs while supporting the shift to cleaner urban transport.

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