Volvo Group has unveiled Australia’s first zero-emissions logistics vehicle which has been supplied to the ACT Emergency Services Agency (ESA).
The bright yellow Volvo FL Electric was revealed at the Australasian Fire and Authorities (AFAC) conference on August 23, the region’s largest emergency management conference and exhibition.
The battery electric truck is designed for urban and city environments and had its superstructure designed and made in New Zealand.
It will be used for important tasks including operational support for fire and rescue teams.
ACT police and emergency services minister Mick Gentleman says transitioning emergency services operational support vehicles to zero emissions vehicles “is a crucial step” to achieving the government’s target of net zero emissions by 2045.
Transport accounts for 19% of Australia’s carbon emissions, and 38% of that is from road vehicles.
Volvo Group Australia president Martin Merrick says the government and emergency services are “leading by example” through the project.
“Early adopters like the ESA and ACT Government should be commended and Volvo is proud to be supporting their work to shape a more sustainable world.”
Following initial Volvo driver development training and vehicle implementation processes, this first vehicle is expected to go into operational service in and around the ACT in early 2024.
