Volvo Trucks North America has started sales of its zero emission, electric VNR in North America.
The Class 8 Volvo VNR Electric truck model has a scheduled production start of early 2021.
The Volvo Electric VNR offers the same agility and visibility as the VNR regional-haul model, so drivers benefit from a fast learning curve and a seamless transition from diesel to kilowatt hours.
“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.
“Volvo Trucks believes and invests in sustainable electromobility. Our deep understanding of the transportation ecosystem — the technology, infrastructure and applications in the trucking industry — have enabled us to deliver a solution that is both advanced yet easy to own and operate.”
The Volvo Electric VNR is designed for driving cycles with local and regional distribution ranges. The 264-kWh lithium-ion batteries, which charge up to 80 per cent within 70 minutes, have an operating range of up to 240 km based on the truck’s configuration.
Advanced battery chemistries deliver increased power at reduced costs, while self-learning controls optimize energy use. Regenerative braking can increase range by returning up to 15 per cent of power back into the battery, depending on the duty cycle.
As well, battery monitoring technology relays the state of health for the energy source in real time, streamlining service needs and maximizing uptime.
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The electric driveline is a fully integrated, Volvo proprietary solution, rated at 455 horsepower and generating up to 4,051 foot pounds of torque. The Volvo VNR Electric features a two-speed Volvo I-Shift transmission that delivers smooth and efficient acceleration with excellent startability and low-speed manoeuvrability.
The safety features found in the Volvo VNR are retained in the electric model including the highest safety standards in the construction of the cab and chassis. The construction of the battery support carrier system was also designed with these same safety standards in mind.
The electric VNR features the same active safety systems as the VNR model. In addition, the specifically designed location of the batteries on the side of the vehicle as well as the air compressor under the driver door also enhance serviceability.
The electric truck is available in three configurations, including:
- Single-axle straight truck with a gross vehicle weight rating of 15,059 kg.
- 4×2 tractor with a 29,997-kg gross combination weight rating (GCWR).
- 6×2 tractor with an up to 37,194 kg GCWR in specific applications.
The new all-electric truck will be fully integrated into the production and manufacturing processes at Volvo’s assembly plant in Dublin, Virginia.
“For us, it is more than just the truck. The transition to electromobility requires a tight stakeholder collaboration,” said Voorhoeve.
“As we hit this landmark milestone, moving forward with our pioneering customers toward a shared vision of the future, Volvo Trucks is making electromobility accessible, efficient and operationally viable. The future is here and we are proud to bring this new and very real solution to the North American commercial trucking industry today.”
