DHL puts UK’s first Volvo heavy duty electric tractor units on the road

DHL has announced the introduction of the UK’s first fully electric Volvo heavy duty tractor units. The four Volvo FM electric trucks are designed for high-capacity deliveries operating at 40 tonnes and will directly replace diesel vehicles on a range of routes.

Featuring Volvo’s largest 540kWh battery and a motor which provides 666hp, the trucks have a range of up to 300km (180 miles), allowing them to complete full round-trips on some routes servicing DHL’s customers across the UK.

The new trucks share the same controls and safety features seen on the conventional diesel Volvo FM vehicles, making the transition for drivers as easy as possible.

Saul Resnick, CEO DHL Supply Chain UK & Ireland, DHL Supply Chain 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.”