The agreement, which places VGA as preferred supplier of zero emissions heavy vehicles to the ESA is believed to be a first for an Australian emergency services agency and firmly places both parties on the road to a fossil-free future.
“The journey towards a zero emissions future isn’t just accelerating globally,” said Martin Merrick, President and CEO Volvo group Australia, “And that journey is fast gathering pace here in Australia.”
“Collaborations like the one we have just announced with the ACTESA are vital to help decarbonise our world and I applaud the agency for its commitment to being a part of this journey with us.”
“We are very aware of the trust placed in us to fulfil this role,” Mr Merrick added.
“Every day around the world, lives depend on our vehicles, and we look forward to that trust evolving towards an emissions free environment to improve the lives of many more.
“Emergency service support vehicles with zero-emissions capability are not currently available on the market, the fulfillment of this contract will position the ESA as a leader in Australia for zero-emissions operational support vehicles,” says ACTESA Commissioner Georgeina Whelan.
“At its core, the ACTESA strives to ensure the safety of our community, staff and volunteers. Making the transition to a sustainable fleet, subsequently contributing to the wellbeing of Canberrans and our environment, aligns with this key commitment.”
“The world around us is rapidly changing, both in terms of technology, workplace diversity and the environment and it is exciting that we are leading this change,” concludes Commissioner Whelan.
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For over 50 years, Volvo Group Australia has been manufacturing trucks in Wacol, Queensland. Today, it’s become Australia’s largest vehicle manufacturing powerhouse.
Volvo Trucks’ production facility in Wacol employs more than 700 people directly in the production process, supported by over 60 dedicated engineers.
Volvo Trucks has committed to being fossil-fuel free by 2040 with production of electric trucks expected to begin at the Wacol site during 2025.