Glastonbury-based business Sparks Transport has taken delivery of a Volvo FM Electric 4×2 tractor unit.
The truck was purchased following a successful trial period from its local Volvo dealer’s electric demonstrator and will be predominately used to deliver Refresco beverages to Tesco stores.
With a charge time of 2.5 hours with a 250kW DC charger, or 9.5 hours on a 43kW AC charger, the tractor unit will join Sparks Transport’s 93-strong commercial fleet and is expected to complete as much as 90,000km (55,000 miles) annually.
The battery can also be charged more quickly up to 80% capacity mid-shift, in just the same way as a smartphone, because the charger slows down towards the end of the process to protect the battery cells.
Managing director of Sparks Transport, Jonathan Sparks, said: “Sustainability is central to our business plan, so it is hugely exciting to be able to welcome our first heavy duty electric truck.
“We run a mixed fleet here, but Volvo was the only manufacturer that could provide us with an electric product that would fit seamlessly into our operations.
“We’re looking forward to seeing the real-world results across the coming years.”
Achievements and innovations in EV charging and alternative fuels vehicles will be celebrated at the third annual CiTTi Awards, which will be held on 26 November 2024 at the De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London. Nominations officially open in March 2024. Please visit www.cittiawards.co.uk to learn more about this unmissable event for the UK’s transportation sector.
