PORTLAND, Ore. – Daimler Trucks North America, LLC (DTNA) is recalling certain model-year 2023-2024 Freightliner eCascadia electric heavy-duty trucks due to a potentially impaired electronic-stability control (ESC) system which could impact braking capabilities..
The 332 EVs within the recall population, produced between Feb. 23, 2023, and June 22, 2023, have a software issue which could result in the driver having difficulty maintaining control of the truck during a braking event which needs the assistance of the ESC.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Part 573 Safety Recall Report 23V-453, the recalled “vehicles were built with an interface between the e-powertrain to the service brakes where the software parameters allow the service brakes to incorrectly estimate the vehicle’s mass.
“Due to incorrect software parameterization, the interface between the epowertrain and the service brake system may allow the service brake system to underestimate the vehicle’s mass during the mass learning process. If the vehicle’s mass is not accurately estimated, this could cause the vehicle’s Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system to intervene later than required and/or with insufficient braking force.”
The root of the problem, according to the NHTSA report, was an interface between the service brakes and e-powertrain defined based upon DTNA diesel applications without modifications for adaptation to an electric powertrain.
The remedy is still under development by DTNA; it will include correct parameterization for the mass learning function. There were no reports of crashes or injuries related to the recall issue.
DTNA dealers and customers are scheduled to be notified by Aug. 26th about the recall.
