DHL Supply Chain, a division of Deutsche Post DHL, has implemented what it claims are the UK’s first all-electric Volvo heavy duty tractor units into its operations.
The four Volvo FM electric trucks are intended for high-capacity deliveries and weigh 40 tonnes.
DHL Supply Chain intends to use them to directly replace traditional diesel vehicles across a range of processes.
The units are fitted with Volvo’s largest 540kWh battery, which reportedly provides 666hp, meaning the zero-emission trucks have a range of up to 300km (180 miles).
This, DHL Supply Chain says, means they can complete full round-trips servicing DHL’s retail and automotive customers across the UK.
Saul Resnick, CEO of DHL Supply Chain UK & Ireland, said: “Today marks an important milestone in our journey towards alternative fuel vehicles.
“The size and capability of these trucks make them a truly viable alternative to diesel as they fully meet our needs and those of our customers. Following our introduction of the UK’s first 16-tonne rigid electric truck in late 2020, we’re proud to continue to lead the way in electric commercial transport.”
What’s more, the new trucks share the same controls and safety features seen on standard diesel Volvo FM vehicles, which has been done to make the transition for drivers as safe and easy as possible.
The company says that early feedback from drivers has been positive.
