Volvo Trucks unveils high-tech electric truck

Volvo Trucks North America, the regional subsidiary of global truck manufacturing giant Volvo Trucks, has unveiled the commercial introduction and start of sales for its battery-electric Volvo VNR Electric semi truck.

Boasting zero tailpipe emissions and a 264-kWh lithium-ion battery, the Class 8 Volvo VNR Electric truck will manage a range of around 240-kilometres (150-miles), and will begin production in early 2021 for Canada and the United States.

“The Volvo VNR Electric marks a significant step forward for electromobility in an industry that we are committed to leading as it undergoes rapid, significant change,” said Peter Voorhoeve, president of Volvo Trucks North America.

The new regional hauler’s battery can be charged up to 80% in only 70 minutes and will offer drivers a quieter ride and what Volvo hopes will be an improved and comfortable working environment that will help to reduce stress and fatigue.

“For us, it is more than just the truck,” said Voorhoeve. “The transition to electromobility requires a tight stakeholder collaboration.

A Volvo spokesperson also revealed to The Driven that Volvo Trucks will be delivering Australia’s first electric trucks in the second quarter of 2021. Expected to be different models than the American VNR model, Volvo was unsurprisingly close-lipped on exactly what we’ll be seeing hit Australian shores, explaining only that they will be based on the European medium duty range.