Zero-emissions trucks land in Australia

Volvo Trucks Australia has announced that the first FL Electric truck, one of the company’s two all-electric models, has arrived in Australia.

The two-axle truck, which will be outfitted with an eight-pallet body and a tailgate lift, will undergo a series of evaluation processes with logistics company Linfox – which, like many other transport businesses, is seeking a cleaner and more sustainable future.

Linfox, which is a member of the Australia’s Electric Vehicle Council (EVC), will use the truck to complete metropolitan deliveries for its BevChain logistics business.

“Acting sustainably is just common sense,” said Peter Fox, executive chairman of Linfox.

“It is imperative to my family and our business that we preserve and protect our environment for the next generation.”

The 4×2 Volvo FL Electric, which has a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 16 tonnes, features an electric motor that produces up to 200kW and 425Nm of torque. Depending on battery configuration, the truck offers a range of 300km.

It also forms a key part of Volvo Trucks’ plans to become fossil-free by 2040, a move that will be made possible by a mooted electric heavy-duty truck that is due to go into production in 2022.

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

“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 FL Electric joins other Australian-market electric trucks such as the light-duty 4×2 Fuso eCanter, which is designed for inner-city use and has a range of approximately 100km.

The eCanter has been tested at its maximum GVM of 7.5 tonnes on Victorian roads for six months ahead of its launch, according to Daimler, to ensure its suitability for Australian operations.

Morrison backs local manufacturing

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, during a tour of Volvo Group Australia’s facilities, highlighted the importance of domestic manufacturing and transport. 

Morrison, speaking on the company’s recent investment into the Volvo and Mack production site, said: “Because of this investment we are able to employ more than 1400 people and are able to support 90 local suppliers. 

“We spend more than $A400 million dollars in the local supply chain every year and our intention is to increase that local investment in the future.”

Morrison promised to support more businesses in making investments in Australian production, in order to help ensure a significant future for manufacturing companies.

He also drew attention to the importance of the supply chains themselves, powered by road transport and drivers, which are responsible for much that society takes for granted. 

At the conclusion of the event, Morrison also got the chance to try the new Volvo FL Electric destined for Linfox’s fleet.