International eRH: Class 8 EV aims to prove zero-emission TCO potential

Key takeaways:

International Motors highlights the importance of total cost of ownership for the successful adoption of electric trucks.
The International eRH Series offers up to 300 miles of range and advanced technology for regional operations.
International provides consulting and financing options to facilitate customers' transition to battery-electric vehicles.

ANAHEIM, California—International Motors’ newest electric truck is about its future and yours.

The OEM used the Advanced Clean Transportation Expo here in Southern California to introduce its newest electric vehicle, the International eRH Series, a Class 8 regional tractor. The truck maker’s leader said that International is well-positioned for the future of transportation as both an OEM and a customer partner.

The corporate buzz words du jour are “pause” and “uncertainty,” International Chief Executive Mathias Carlbaum told FleetOwner on April 29. But while there might be some questions about short-term zero-emission adoption rates, International is focused on its destination.

“In the long term, I’m the first to say you need to stand on your own legs,” he said. “You have to earn that yourself, and you have to have a TCO (total cost of ownership)that pays the bills—otherwise you never scale.”

Despite today’s uncertainties, after meeting with some unnamed large fleet customers here this week, he said there is still an appetite for zero-emission vehicles.

“In their case, it’s either for their organization to meet internal targets or it’s because they see where the future is heading, and they don’t want to be caught behind,” he said.

While he acknowledged that there is more interest from large fleets in trying out battery-electric transportation, he said International expects some interest from smaller operations that want to be part of the cutting edge.

“There’s enough substance and critical volume in the years to come for us to continue on this learning journey—not the scale journey,” he said of scaling up mass BEV adoption. “The scale journey needs to come through TCO, together with the learning, and as a base that will lead to the next step.”

About the International eRH Series

The new Class 8 EV joins International’s medium-duty, battery-electric eMV as its latest zero-emission offering.

Designed to meet the demands of heavy-duty regional and drayage fleets, the eRH Series is available in 4x2 and 6x4 axle configurations, offering a range of up to 300 miles, depending on configuration, battery capacity, and usage.

“This new solution perfectly complements our current battery-electric vehicle lineup and underscores our commitment to innovation,” Justina Morosin, International SVP of sales and field operations, said. “At International, our focus is on providing a seamless journey—from the initial purchase to ongoing support—ensuring a smooth customer experience every step of the way."

Built on the diesel-powered RH Series foundation, the eRH features a 113-in. bumper-to-back-of-cab measurement designed to create better driver visibility. Its wheelbase offers a tight turning radius, ideal for urban operations. It also features the Bendix Fusion integrated driver assistance system.

“I’m proud of the R&D and all cross-functional teams at International. Bringing the eRH to the market was no small task, and it’s something everyone takes pride in,” Michael Grahe, International EVP of research and development, said. “Our teams have been working hand in hand with our customers throughout this development process to ensure that the eRH not only meets the demands of their business today but will continue to do so well into the future as the landscape of commercial transportation evolves.”

The eRH comes with lithium-nickel-manganese-cobalt battery configuration options, ranging from 300 kWh to 500 kWh of usable battery capacity, providing high energy density in a compact space. This also allows the eRH to come packaged with low curb weight, which maximizes payload and profit for the customer.

The tandem and single eAxle configurations reduce complexity and maximize the vehicle's drivetrain efficiency. This results in lower total operating costs while providing peak and continuous power with optimal performance. The eRH offers three levels of driver-selectable regenerative braking, extending range while allowing drivers to suit their needs best.

"We’ve invested heavily in infrastructure, operations, and training to ensure we are ready to adopt battery-electric vehicles as they become available,” Paul Rosa, SVP, procurement and fleet planning, Penske, said. “We are excited to be among the first to demonstrate the capabilities of the eRH.”

International offers consulting services to assist customers throughout the process, including infrastructure readiness, onboarding, and grant support. International's planned maintenance service contracts are designed to ensure that customers’ operating, maintenance, and service needs are met and supported by an extensive dealer network.

International Financial offers loan and lease financing options for electric vehicles, chargers, internal-combustion vehicles, and more.

Series production of the eRH is planned for early 2026.