Sparks Transport powers up Volvo FM electric

Glastonbury-based business Sparks Transport has taken delivery of a Volvo FM Electric 4×2 tractor unit after a successful trial with its local Volvo dealer’s electric demonstrator. Supplied by Russell Woof, Area Sales Manager, Truck and Bus Wales and West, the customer’s new electric truck will predominantly deliver Refresco beverages to Tesco stores. Managing Director of Sparks Transport, Jonathan Sparks says: “Sustainability is central to our business plan, so it is hugely exciting to welcome our first heavy-duty electric truck.

We run a mixed fleet here, but Volvo was the only manufacturer that could provide us with an electric product that would fit seamlessly into our operations. “The Truck and Bus Wales and West team has worked diligently on this project to help us pinpoint exactly where electric trucking can work for us, and the demonstrator proved that. We look forward to seeing real-world results in the coming years.”

The new FM Electric – sporting Sparks Transport’s striking green and yellow livery – is powered by three electrical motors which generate 666 hp and 2,400 Nm of continuous torque. It is equipped with a maximum of six batteries, unlocking a driving range of approximately 300 km. It has a charging time of 2.5 hours with a 250kW DC charger or 9.5 hours on a 43kW AC charger.

The battery can also quickly charge up to 80% capacity mid-shift if required