Volvo Trucks delivers two electric trucks in South Africa

Volvo Trucks South Africa has delivered two all-electric FH 6x4 truck tractors to Vector Logistics. The focus is on food distribution, which is why the tractors are matched with refrigerated trailers.

The two electric trucks are the company’s first “bumper-to-bumper net-zero trucks,” Volvo Trucks states. Vector Logistics will use them for operations in Gauteng and Cape Town. The trucks are equipped with three electric motors, which offer a combined 665hp. The six batteries have a total energy storage capacity of 540 kWh.

“When fully charged, this combination will give each truck a range of between 200 and 300 kilometres,” says Volvo Trucks. To charge the vehicles, Vector Logistics invested in two DC chargers – one for each depot in Gauteng and Cape Town.

The manufacturer’s trainers also worked with drivers, training them ” on how to operate and get the best out of these electric trucks.” Especially, as there is a lack of a consistent supply of electricity in South Africa.

“In a way, we believe it is all down to planning,” said Eric Parry, Volvo Trucks’ Sustainable Solutions Manager. “Operators will have the necessary tools to plan their charging options according to their workload and routes, even though there is load shedding.”

“We are excited about Vector Logistics’ shift towards the electrification in their fleet. Just like Volvo Trucks, sustainability is part of their core values and together we believe this innovative solution will help shape the future of the local logistics landscape,” said Waldemar Christensen, Managing Director of Volvo Trucks South Africa.

volvotrucks.co.za