First electric Volvo FL arrives in Aus

Volvo Trucks says the first electric Volvo FL will be fitted with an eight-pallet body and tailgate lift and is destined for trials and evaluation with Linfox, undertaking metropolitan deliveries with BevChain, the company’s beverage logistics business.

“It is very clear that both our customers, and our customer’s customers, are demanding a cleaner and quieter urban transport environment,” said Vice President, Volvo Trucks Australia Tony O’Connell.

“Momentum is building globally to create safe and clean cities and the arrival of this truck in Australia marks the first step on that journey for Volvo Trucks Australia.

“The electrification of our urban supply chain not only affects the local air quality of our cities,” continued O’Connell. “It also has the potential to make our urban areas more livable.”

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Executive Chairman Linfox Pty Ltd, Peter Fox added: “The introduction of electric vehicles opens an exciting chapter for both Linfox and Volvo.

“Our investment in sustainable vehicles will significantly help reduce our emissions in the foreseeable future,” said Mr Fox.

“As our nations’ freight demand grows, it is vital we meet that need safely, efficiently and with reduced environmental impact.

“Acting sustainably is just common sense. It is imperative to my family and our business that we preserve and protect our environment for the next generation,” Fox concluded.

The 4x2 Volvo FL Electric is powered by 600 Volt, 200 kWh battery packs which power a 200kW/425Nm motor. Power gets to the drive wheels via a two-speed I-Shift automated transmission.

In late 2020 Volvo Trucks announced its intention for all Volvo Trucks to be fossil fuel free by 2040. It also announced that pre sales for the European market of a complete range of electric heavy duty truck models would begin in 2021 with production to start in 2022.

The roadmap to a fossil-free future for Volvo Trucks also includes the development of Hydrogen Fuel Cell technology for long-haul applications to complement the more urban-centric electric drivelines and the gradual phasing out of the traditional diesel engine.

“This is a very exciting time to be a part of Volvo Trucks Australia,” said O’Connell. “The path to a cleaner, safer and ultimately more enjoyable cityscape is being paved as we speak. I look forward to seeing this truck plying the streets of an Australian capital city in the very near future.”

The Volvo FL Electric is expected to begin trials with Linfox/BevChain in April.