Volvo Trucks has developed electric concept trucks for construction operations and regional distribution to gauge commercial interest. The company plans to have select European customers pilot a small number of these concept vehicles, which it plans to commercialize in the future.

Volvo points out that heavy-duty e-trucks can improve the work environment for drivers and construction workers, thanks to their low noise levels and zero exhaust emissions. The lack of noise allows operators to use e-trucks for more hours per day, which opens up new possibilities for streamlining operations.

The Swedish carmaker has already introduced a handful of trucks with alternative fuels or drivelines, including the FL Electric and FE Electric, both of which are fully electric and intended for local distribution and refuse handling in urban environments.

Volvo Trucks President Roger Alm said, “We see great potential for heavy-duty electric trucks for regional transport and construction in the longer term. With our concept trucks, we aim to explore and demonstrate different solutions for the future while evaluating the level of interest in the market and in society. To increase demand for electrified trucks, the charging infrastructure needs to be rapidly expanded, while stronger financial incentives must be created for hauliers who act as pioneers by choosing new vehicles with a lower environmental and climate footprint.”

Source: Volvo Trucks