DHL Supply Chain (DHL) has taken delivery of the second-generation medium-duty Volvo FL Electric.
Based at DHL’s western Sydney supply chain campus, the truck is the first electric model in the firm’s Australian operations and the first locally delivered upgraded model.
The new unit will help DHL’s target of achieving 60% electric vehicles in its last-mile fleet by 2030.
It features Volvo’s second-generation battery packs with increased range compared to the previous FL Electric.
It combines a 600-volt motor with a two-speed transmission to deliver a 5500-kilogram payload. Four 66 kWh Gen 2 battery packs provide power with charging times dependent on the duty cycle and chargers used.
Fitted with a tautliner van body capable of carrying eight full-sized pallets, the Volvo FL uses its 300-kilometre range to service various DHL customers.
DHL Supply Chain chief executive Steve Thompsett says the battery electric trucks will play a big part in helping the firm reduce the environmental impact of its operations.
“Updating our fleet to zero emissions vehicles is a priority in Australia and it combines well with the measures we’re taking to reduce our carbon footprint across our operations.
“The breadth of DHL Supply Chain’s global footprint means that our company has already trialled and rolled out Volvo’s electric truck offerings in Europe, meaning that we could forgo an Australian trial and go straight to investing in these climate-benefitting vehicles,” he says.
DHL Supply Chain senior vice president of transport, Bill Rolfe, says the company is always aiming for continual improvements and the launch of the Volvo FL Electric is part of that.
“The addition of Volvo FL electric trucks is a simple way for us to transition to battery-electric technology, with a useful driving range, proven reliability and an intuitive driving experience that will resonate with our staff,” Rolfe says.
Volvo Trucks vice president Gary Bone says the electric model will be a great fit for DHL’s operations.
“As well as being nimble, safe and a comfortable place for DHL Supply Chain staff to work, the Volvo FL delivers tangible benefits to the climate, as well as everybody who lives and works in the areas in which they operate,” he says.
“Drivers feedback on these trucks is overwhelmingly positive in terms of comfort and ergonomics and reduced fatigue levels.
“We can’t wait to see more of them in DHL livery,” Bone says.
