Volvo delivers first electric trucks

First all-electric trucks for the Swedish maker pressed into service with operators

Volvo Trucks has delivered the first of its all-electric trucks to customers, with three examples of its FL Electric entering service with three different operators in Sweden.

Waste specialist Renova has taken delivery of an FL Electric fitted out for refuse duties, while DB Schenker and partner haulier TGM have received one FL Electric distribution truck each.

Volvo says the trucks are part of a pre-series developed in collaboration with selected customers. Series production of the Volvo FL Electric and its sibling, the Volvo FE Electric, will commence with a limited number of trucks for European markets in the second half of 2019.

The absence of motor noise and exhaust emissions contributes to better working conditions for the drivers and a quieter, cleaner urban environment.

"Our close collaboration with drivers and customers has enabled us to develop, in a short space of time, electrified transport solutions that meet high requirements in terms of performance, driving distances, cargo handling and vehicle use," said Roger Alm, President, Volvo Trucks.

Volvo says the feedback from the drivers, who each received operator training ahead of the deliveries, has been positive.

"The drivers were particularly impressed with the responsive driveline, delivering fast and seamless acceleration, and the low noise level," said Mr Alm.

"We will continue to develop our electrified offering. At the same time, we are steadily reducing the environmental and climate impact of our diesel and gas powered trucks, primarily through energy-efficient drivelines."

Volvo says it developed the FL Electric and FE Electric for distribution, refuse handling and other urban transport applications. The Volvo FL Electric has a GVM of 16 tonnes, while the Volvo FE Electric has a GVM of 27 tonnes.

Volvo delivers first electric trucks

Tags