Volvo FM Electric enters service with DFDS in Shetland operations
The Volvo FM Electric has been introduced to DFDS operations in Shetland, marking the first battery-electric heavy-duty truck working on the islands. The new unit replaces a diesel truck and will handle refrigerated logistics, primarily transporting salmon and seafood for onward distribution to mainland Scotland. DFDS says the move forms part of its wider decarbonisation strategy.
The company now operates 10 electric trucks across the UK and Ireland, with a much larger fleet deployed across Europe. Greg van Hombergh, Managing Director of DFDS Scotland, said: "We want to support more companies looking to decarbonise their supply chains. "This deployment and the valuable learnings from it are helping us move faster in that direction."
The Volvo FM Electric is operating under the Zero Emission HGV & Infrastructure Demonstrator Programme. This is funded by the Department for Transport and delivered with Innovate UK.
Built for cold-chain and harsh conditions
The Volvo FM Electric will work with refrigerated trailers on both trunking and final-mile deliveries across Shetland. Operations include transporting fresh seafood and supporting local retail supply chains.
Reliability remains critical due to the region's climate and geography. DFDS Operations Manager Bryan Hepburn said: "The early signs are very positive. "This deployment shows that electric trucks really can work anywhere and are ready to deliver time sensitive goods in pristine condition."
The truck is powered by three electric motors, producing 666hp and 2,400Nm of torque. Power is delivered through Volvo's I-Shift transmission. An electromobility traction control system helps maintain grip on slippery surfaces.
Multiple drive modes allow drivers to balance performance and efficiency.
Range and charging suited to local work
Equipped with six batteries, the Volvo FM Electric offers a range of around 300km. This suits DFDS's island-based operations. Charging takes place at the DFDS depot in Lerwick and at customer locations.
Recent investment has also introduced additional charging hubs across Shetland. This infrastructure development supports the wider adoption of electric trucks in remote and demanding environments. The vehicle is expected to cover around 30,000km per year over a five-year period.
Driver comfort and uptime support
The Volvo FM Electric features a Globetrotter cab, full air suspension and Alcoa Dura Bright alloy wheels.
Driver comfort is supported with dual armrests, increased storage and advanced climate control systems. Safety systems include Forward Collision Warning with Advanced Emergency Braking. DFDS has also specified a five-year Volvo Gold Contract.
This provides preventative maintenance, repairs and continuous monitoring of key systems.
The Volvo FM Electric plays a role in DFDS's wider target to cut land-based emissions intensity by 75% between 2022 and 2030.
More Information:
Volvo Trucks - https://www.volvotrucks.co.uk
DFDS - https://www.dfds.com
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