Volvo Trucks has launched more powerful batteries for its medium-duty electric trucks, the Volvo FL and Volvo FE Electric. Customers can now order these upgraded electric trucks, with deliveries set to begin in fall this year.
These batteries offer 42 percent extra energy capacity, enabling an increased range of up to 450 km on a single charge.
The FL Electric model of Volvo Trucks can accommodate three to six battery packs, providing a capacity range of 280 kWh to 565 kWh. This capacity increase allows the truck to achieve a range of 280 km (with three packs) to 450 km (with six packs) in distribution traffic.
The single-engine powertrain, which produces up to 180 kW at peak power, remains unchanged for the 16.7-tonne truck. However, Volvo Trucks has not disclosed specific details about charging. Previously, the truck could charge up to 150 kW at CCS charging points.
The FE Electric model, weighing 27 tonnes, has seen improvements in the form of a 280 to 375 kWh battery capacity (with three or four packs) and a maximum range of 275 kilometers.
This range applies to distribution transport scenarios without electro-mechanical power take-off (PTO). When the electro-mechanical PTO is engaged and used for refuse collection, the range is reduced to a maximum of 200 kilometers. The driveline and twin-engine drive remain unaltered, with a power output of up to 225 kW.
Cleaner Environment, Enhanced Driver Experience
According to Jessica Sandström, senior vice president of product management at Volvo Trucks, the electric trucks from Volvo, with their impressive range of up to 450 km, can replace the entire fleet of diesel city trucks owned by customers.
She said Volvo FL and FE Electric contribute to a cleaner environment by producing minimal emissions and reducing noise pollution. This contribution benefits the climate and enhances the experience for drivers and the well-being of everyone residing and commuting within the city.
Customers have the option to choose smaller batteries that have a shorter range, which would allow them to increase their payload. According to her, Volvo has claimed that for every battery that is not carried, the payload can be increased by approximately 500 kg.
Sandström said that some customers prioritize increased payload over maximizing range, and Volvo Trucks collaborates with them to determine the optimal solution.
Volvo Trucks reported selling 5,000 electric trucks across 40 countries globally since it began manufacturing all-electric trucks in 2019. However, it is worth noting that the company did not provide a breakdown by weight class in this regard.
Alongside the mentioned medium-duty electric trucks, Volvo Trucks also offers heavy-duty models such as FH, FM, and FMX in its product lineup. It has set a goal of making electric trucks represent 50 percent of all truck sales worldwide by 2030.