Two down, eighty eight to go. Insulation supplier Galaxy Insulation and Dry Lining has taken delivery of two Volvo FE Electric 6×2 rigids as part of the business’ ongoing efforts to reduce its carbon footprint. This leaves just 88 diesel trucks to replace to make a significant impact. It is a step in the right direction for a company with a distribution profile of this type as these new arrivals are direct replacements for similarly sized diesel trucks.
Supplied by Daniel Byworth, Area Sales Manager, Hartshorne Group, the FE Electrics join a 90-strong commercial vehicle fleet, which already features an electric van while the company also operates a totally electric forklift fleet across its 15 branches.
Wayne Allen, Galaxy Insulation and Dry Lining’s Northern Compliance Manager, says: “Sustainability is a subject close to our hearts, hence why we’re proud to already be a carbon neutral and FORS Gold accredited business, but we also recognise that there remains significant potential to further decarbonise our fleet. That’s why we’re delighted to be welcoming these two new Volvo FE Electrics.
“The trucks’ arrival will make an immediate impact in reducing our carbon footprint, while also extending the environmental benefits of electric trucking to our customers too.”
Galaxy Insulation and Dry Lining’s new Volvo FE Electrics have been specified with the maximum four batteries, offering an approximate driving range of 190km, while the trucks can be recharged in just 2.3 hours using a 150kW DC charger.
The curtainside rigids are powered by two electric motors and benefit from a two-speed transmission, offering a smooth and comfortable driving experience. Power is handled by a unique traction control system developed to master even slippery surfaces, while different drive modes are available to set the desired performance, comfort, and energy usage levels.
The trucks have been placed in two of the customer’s depots, with one vehicle due to service local deliveries in and around Sheffield and the other operating around Birmingham.
“With these vehicles, we wanted to underline that it is not just London that is embracing electric mobility,” adds Allen. “The Volvo team has worked tirelessly to fully evaluate how and where these electric trucks can thrive in our fleet, and we can’t wait to start putting them to work.
“The drivers have already commented on just how smooth and enjoyable the trucks are to operate – they are delivering a far more relaxing and peaceful drive than the diesel models they replaced!”
Backed by a Volvo Gold Contract, covering all maintenance and repairs, and including proactive monitoring of batteries and associated components, the FE Electrics are expected to work five days a week and are anticipated to be on the fleet for five years.
Established in 2009, Galaxy Insulation and Dry Lining services the majority of the UK from its strategically placed depots, supplying a range of building materials to builders’ merchants, building sites and private customers.