Trucks
These trucks form part of Vector Logistics’ introduction of their first fully electric, bumper-to-bumper net-zero trucks, which includes e-axle trailers and electrification of its refrigeration and tail lift components. The truck and trailer have a gross combination weight of 48.6 tonnes.
The Volvo FH 6X4 Tractor with sleep cab has been adapted to accommodate three seats. The truck produces 665hp and 2 400Nm of torque from three electric motors that are supplied from 6 Volvo batteries, with a total capacity of 540kWh.
Vector Logistics will utilise these electric trucks in their Gauteng and Cape Town operations, focussing on local deliveries and distribution. For this purpose, the company invested in two high speed DC charging stations at their home depots. When fully charged, this combination will give each truck a range of between 200 and 300km.
“We are excited about Vector Logistics’ shift towards the electrification in their fleet. Just like Volvo Trucks, sustainability is part of their core values and together we believe this innovative solution will help shape the future of the local logistics landscape,” said Waldemar Christensen, Managing Director of Volvo Trucks South Africa.
Together with Vector Logistics and other service providers, Volvo Trucks offered a holistic solution to the company’s individual requirements regarding driving cycles, load capacity, uptime, range and other parameters. It encompasses everything from route analysis and battery optimisation to servicing and maintenance.
“The aim as always is to offer customers the highest possible uptime and productivity,” said Christensen.
Volvo Trucks’ extra heavy trucks electric line-up includes the Volvo FH, the Volvo FM, and the Volvo FMX. They are available in truck tractor or rigid configurations, from 4x2 to 8x4, giving it the industry’s most extensive portfolio of zero exhaust emission trucks.
“One of the main advantages of going electric is that it provides drivers with a silent and vibration-free ride while delivering smooth and massive power,” said Eric Parry, Volvo Trucks’ Sustainable Solutions Manager. “When you think of a typical delivery location for Vector Logistics, which includes sites like restaurants and supermarkets, a big plus is that Volvo's electric trucks are quiet and less disruptive in these locations. The trucks are also equipped with Volvo Dynamic Steering, which provides reduced steering-wheel resistance at low speeds making them easier to maneuver.”
In addition, the electric motor provides smooth and seamless power delivery, which is ideal for stop-and-go driving in the metro areas where these units will operate. Volvo’s electric trucks also meet the same high crash safety standards as the company’s other trucks and offer the same safety systems as the diesel models.
Volvo Trucks’ driver trainers have trained a team of selected Vector Logistics drivers on how to operate and get the best out of these electric trucks. Further training will be conducted in the near future to hone their skills.
The question on everybody’s minds in South Africa is a lack of a consistent supply of electricity and how operators can work around this challenge to efficiently operate electric trucks.
“In a way, we believe it is all down to planning,” said Parry. “Operators will have the necessary tools to plan their charging options according to their workload and routes, even though there is load shedding.”
Like in the case of Vector Logistics, electric trucks are mostly aimed at regional distribution customers. In most of those cases, they return to a home base at some point in the day. This is usually the point where charging makes the most sense. So public charging is not as relevant for these operations. Having control of their own charging allows customers to have certainty in their energy costs.
Many companies are formulating ambitious CO² goals as stricter carbon emission regulations are implemented across the world, as well as the desire for better air quality and less noise, especially in large urban areas. Another important driver for electrification is transport efficiency. Electric trucks can make deliveries at night and in off-peak periods and can access more locations than their diesel counterparts, including the inside of buildings.
“Volvo Trucks has been committed to social, environmental, and economic responsibility since the start of our company,” said Christensen. “Now, protecting the environment is the biggest challenge we face. The Volvo Group is a leading force in the shift towards the electrification of the transportation, mobility, and equipment sectors, making a real impact on our customers’ efforts to reduce their carbon footprint.”
About Vector Logistics: Vector Logistics is South Africa’s leading integrated cold chain logistics provider, specialising in temperature-controlled warehousing, distribution and end-to-end supply chain solutions. With a national footprint and a commitment to operational excellence, Vector Logistics partners with some of the country’s most recognised food brands to ensure the seamless movement of temperature-sensitive goods from production to retail shelves.
Backed by cutting-edge technology, sustainability-driven practices, and a team of industry experts, Vector Logistics delivers innovative, end-to-end logistics solutions that optimise efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and enhance customer satisfaction.
About Volvo Trucks South Africa: Volvo Trucks South Africa forms part of the Volvo Group Southern Africa, and primarily deals with the production, support and marketing of extra heavy trucks for long-haulage, regional distribution, and construction purposes. The company’s head office is located in Ekhurhuleni, and has an assembly plant in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. Volvo Trucks has 19 dealer locations across South Africa.
Volvo Group is a multinational manufacturing company headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden. It is known for its production of commercial vehicles, construction equipment, and various other products and services.
These business divisions work collectively to drive Volvo Group’s mission of shaping the future of transport and infrastructure solutions. By focusing on innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction, Volvo Group continues to be a leading provider of products and services in the commercial vehicle and construction equipment industries.
Belinda Butler
Brand, Marketing & Communication, Volvo Trucks
Tel: +27 11 842 5000
Email: press.za@volvo.com
Volvo Trucks supplies complete transport solutions for discerning professional customers with its full range of medium- and heavy-duty trucks. Customer support is provided via a global network of dealers with 2,300 service points in about 130 countries. Volvo trucks are assembled in 12 countries across the globe. In 2022 approximately 145,000 Volvo trucks were delivered worldwide. Volvo Trucks is part of the Volvo Group, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of trucks, buses, construction equipment and marine and industrial engines. The group also provides complete solutions for financing and service. Volvo Trucks’ work is based on the core values of quality, safety, and environmental care.