Gander & White keeps it cool with temperature-controlled Volvo FL Electric rigid
London-based fine art logistics provider Gander & White has acquired its first electric truck, replacing a refrigerated diesel model from a rival manufacturer with a new Volvo FL Electric 4x2 rigid. The zero-tailpipe emission truck will service customer deliveries across the capital, transporting an array of high-value goods, including paintings, sculptures and antiques. Supplied by Ishmael Thomas, Transport Solutions Executive, Volvo Truck and Bus Centre South & East, the FL Electric was ordered following Gander & White's positive experience with a similar demonstration model, which highlighted the operational and sustainability potential of switching to electric power.
Alexander Bradford, Global Business Development & Sustainability Manager, Gander & White, says: "From the outset, Volvo's team has been helpful and knowledgeable, with Ishmael and his colleagues eager to help us pinpoint the ideal use case for an electric truck of this size within our existing business. The result is a practical and comfortable specification that slots seamlessly into our fleet. "Though early days, we're confident in this technology and its potential to help us reduce our carbon footprint.
We hope this will be just the first step towards transitioning our fleet from diesel power towards alternative fuels." Gander & White's Cobalt Blue FL Electric is equipped with three batteries, generating 280 kWh, while its powertrain features an electric motor driven by a two-speed transmission that produces a peak torque of 425 Nm, creating a very smooth driving experience. Given its specialised workload, the truck is mounted with a Carrier Transicold Iceland 11 temperature-controlled unit.
The compact, powerful and all-electric system ensures the often-delicate goods Gander & White transports are kept at a consistent temperature to prevent damage in transit. Inside the body, the customer has opted for a fully equipped specification, featuring wooden carpeted rails, fixings for ratchet straps and floor-installed anchor points. Combined with full air suspension, this ensures all the goods can be secured safely.
The FL Electric also features a range of safety-focused technologies, including Lane Keeping Support, Side Collision Avoidance Support, Driver Alert Support and Forward Collision Warning systems. "After researching the current market, it was clear to us that Volvo Trucks is well ahead of the game when it comes to electric vehicles," adds Michael McGrellis, Fleet Manager, Gander & White. "The significant commitment it has made to invest in this space was a huge reassurance that they believe in this technology, which made the selection process very straightforward. "The truck is already turning heads wherever it goes, both among our customers and also our competitors!
Speaking to those who have already driven it, they've all commented that the experience is a big improvement - particularly regarding the smoother drive and reduced noise when compared to a diesel truck. It's already set a very high bar." Backed by a Volvo Gold Contract, covering all maintenance and repairs, and including proactive monitoring of batteries and associated components, the FL Electric is expected to work five days a week.
Boasting more than 90 years of experience, Gander & White operates internationally, with offices in London, Paris, New York, Palm Beach, Miami and San Francisco.
In the UK, it operates a 16-strong commercial vehicle fleet, delivering nationwide to private collectors, antique dealers, fine art and contemporary galleries, interior designers, auction houses and museums.