It appears green is the new gold standard as Volvo and other commercial motor vehicles manufacturers are cashing in on notoriety.
“We are determined to lead the electric transformation of the transport industry. Volumes are still low, but we see rapidly growing interest in Europe, North America, and also other parts of the world,” Roger Alm, president of Volvo Trucks, reportedly said. “In 2021 we took orders, including letters of intent to buy, for more than 1,100 trucks in over 20 countries. It’s clearly becoming a key competitive advantage to be able to offer electric, zero emission transports.”
The Green Car Journal recently named Volvo’s VNR Electric model Commercial Green Truck of the Year. On the heels of the Class 8 battery-electric vehicle getting the nod, Maersk reportedly ordered 110 Volvo VNR Electric models. That impressive commitment to heavy-duty electric trucks dwarfs its previous Volvo order of 16 rigs. Reports indicate the first wave of electric trucks is scheduled in the coming months and all 126 trucks are on track for a 2023 deployment.
The Class 8 Volvo provides sustainable transportation for local and regional distribution routes. With a two-speed auto transmission, its 455 horsepower electric motor delivers a reported 4,051 pounds-per-foot of maximum torque. With a range upwards of 275 miles, the model achieves top-end speeds of 68 mph and recharges to 80 percent in under 90 minutes. While these statistics pale by comparison to diesel-fueled Class 8 trucks, states such as California, New York, and others, are incentivizing zero-emission freight hauling operations and leveling fees against fossil fuel vehicles. A recent Green Journal post highlighted the following Green Car Product of Excellence award winners.
- Freightliner eCascadia: This Class 8 electric truck is intended for short-haul or last-mile delivery, regional delivery, and drayage. It features 500 horsepower and a 250-mile range.
- Kenworth T680E: Available as a Class 8 tractor or straight truck, the zero-emission T680E features 536 horsepower, 1623 lb-ft torque, and a 150-mile electric driving range.
- Mack LR Electric: The next-generation Mack LR Electric is a Class 8 truck aimed at refuse and recycling duty. It has a 376 kWh battery and twin electric motors producing 448 horsepower.
- Nikola Tre BEV: Nikola’s Tre BEV is an all-electric Class 8 tractor for regional applications featuring 645 horsepower, a 753 kWh battery pack, and an operating range up to 350 miles.
- Peterbilt 579EV: The 579EV is a Class 8 Day Cab configuration intended for short-haul and drayage operations. It features 536 electric horsepower, a 396 kWh battery, and a 150-mile range.
Maersk officials indicated the shipping giant plans to add upwards of 300 electric trucks to its North American footprint between 2023 and 2025. Many of the Class 8 trucks will be deployed in California, where tax incentives drastically reduce the cost. Maersk may also be eligible for exemption from the Clean Truck fees at the Port of Los Angeles and Port of Long Beach.
Sources: prnewswire.com, greencarjournal.com
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