Volvo unveils second electric truck

Volvo has unveiled its second electric truck, FE Electric, which is designed for heavy city distribution and refuse transport operations, with gross weights of up to 27 tonnes.

Volvo’s first electric truck, FL Electric, was announced in April and has begun regular operation with two customers in Gothenburg (www.tinyurl.com/yca9blme)

The first Volvo FE Electric is a refuse truck developed with Faun, and will start operating in early 2019 in Germany's second-largest city, Hamburg.

The new Volvo FE Electric will be offered in several variants for different types of transport assignment. Volvo's low-entry cab, for example, makes it easier to enter and exit the cab and gives the driver a good view of surrounding traffic. Low noise level and vibration-free operation makes working conditions better. Battery capacity can be optimised to suit individual needs, and charging takes place either via the mains or via quick-charge stations.

"Our solutions for electrified transport are designed to suit the specific needs of each customer and each city. In addition to the vehicles, we will offer everything from route analysis to services and financing via our network of dealers and workshops throughout Europe. We also have close partnerships with suppliers of charging infrastructure," says Jonas Odermalm, Product Line Vice President for the Volvo FL and Volvo FE at Volvo Trucks.

Volvo FL Electric has a claimed range of up to 186 miles. Two different charging systems are available: CCS2, which offers maximum charge power of 150 kW DC and low power charging which has a maximum charge power of 22 kW AC. A fast charge takes 1-2 hours (DC charging), and a night charge takes up to 10 hours (AC charging), with maximum battery capacity of 300 kWh.