It is a solid start – an operator with a 93-strong truck fleet has taken the plunge and invested in an electric tractor unit – a 666hp Volvo FM electric. Sensibly, the operator, Glastonbury-based business Sparks Transport took a look at their operations in conjunction with the Volvo Truck dealer, Truck and Bus Wales and West. As a result, they pinpointed a small section of their routes that could cope with the issues associated with electric truck operation. Next on the list was to put an electric demonstrator on the routes to see if the theory was correct.
After the successful demonstrator trial, the company has just taken delivery of their new Volvo FM Electric 4×2 tractor unit.
Supplied by Russell Woof, Area Sales Manager, Truck and Bus Wales and West, the customer’s new electric truck will be predominately used to deliver Refresco beverages to Tesco stores.
Jonathan Sparks, Managing Director, Sparks Transport, says: “Sustainability is central to our business plan, so it is hugely exciting to be able to welcome our first heavy duty electric truck. We run a mixed fleet here, but Volvo was the only manufacturer that could provide us with an electric product that would fit seamlessly into our operations.
“The team at Truck and Bus Wales and West has worked diligently on this project to help us pinpoint exactly where electric trucking can work for us, and the demonstrator proved that. We’re looking forward to seeing the real-world results across the coming years.”
The Volvo FM Electric Specification
The new FM Electric – sporting Sparks Transport’s striking green and yellow livery – is powered by three electrical motors which generate 666 hp and 2,400 Nm of continuous torque. It is equipped with the maximum six batteries, unlocking a driving range of approximately 300 km. An onboard electromobility traction control system helps manage output on slippery surfaces, while different drive modes are available to set the desired performance, comfort, and energy usage levels.
The vehicle utilises Volvo’s standard I-Shift gearbox, which delivers a smooth and ultra-quiet driving experience by constantly evaluating information about speed, weight, road grade and torque demand.
It has a charging time of just 2.5 hours with a 250kW DC charger, or 9.5 hours on a 43kW AC charger. The battery can also be charged more quickly up to 80% capacity mid-shift, in just the same way as a smartphone, because the charger slows down towards the end of the process to protect the battery cells.
The FM Electric has been specified with Volvo Dynamic Steering and I-See Predictive cruise control, plus Forward Collision Warning with adaptive cruise control, Advanced Emergency Braking, and Side Collision Support systems provide a comprehensive active safety setup.
The Globetrotter cab has been fitted out with leather upholstery and a suspended and heated driver’s seat with dual armrests. Also included is a premium 50mm mattress protector, a 28-litre fridge and additional cab storage.
Sparks Transport has taken out a five-year Volvo Gold Contract covering all maintenance and repairs, including proactive monitoring of batteries and associated components.
Providing both warehousing and distribution services, the new truck joins a 93-strong commercial fleet. Working up to six days a week, it is expected to complete as much as 90,000 km annually.