VOLVO

Company presents FL and FE electric trucks for construction and urban use

Volvo is betting on electric trucks with the presentation of the electric versions of the FL and FE in Europe. The models are prototypes and were shown in the configurations for construction and cargo transportation in cities. Electric FL has a total gross weight (PBT) of 16 tons and the EF, of 27 tons. The range is 300 kilometers, according to information from the Swedish manufacturer.
The electric truck can also contribute to improving the driver's quality of life. Mainly because of the low noise level during operation. Unlike with diesel engine trucks. Not to mention the pollutant emissions, which are nil in the case of electric trucks.
Another focus of the operation of new trucks is the transportation of cargo in urban areas. In Europe, this type of truck runs on average 80,000 km per year. “Increasing the use of electric trucks would result in significant climate gains as long as power generation is fossil fuel free,” says Lars Mårtensson, director of environment and innovation at Volvo Trucks.



Electric trucks in focus
“Our intention is to demonstrate different solutions for the future while assessing market interest,” says Volvo Trucks President Roger Alm.
Volvo Trucks plan for electric trucks is to start operations with a restricted group of customers. In addition to the choice of construction and regional distribution sectors, the brand will have a limited number of vehicles in operation.
For Mårtensson, the future of electric trucks depends on a number of factors. He points out that one of the most important is the expansion of the recharge infrastructure.



“Financial incentives are also needed to get more carriers to invest in electric vehicles,” says the Volvo executive. “Shippers can also contribute by offering longer contracts and paying more for sustainable transport,” he explains.

Combustion engine truck
Although Volvo is investing heavily in electric trucks, those with engines will have a long life. These vehicles will continue to be vital for long-haul cargo transportation.
This is because the batteries still do not guarantee sufficient autonomy for long trips. Therefore, the development and improvement of combustion engines will continue to play a key role in cargo transportation worldwide.
“Today's engines are efficient power converters that can run on diesel or different renewable fuels like liquefied biogas or HVO,” explains Mårtensson. “And it still has potential.”

Andrea Ramos, Brazil/Mundoquatrorodas