All-Electric Volvo VNR Hits American Market This Year
Volvo Trucks has plans to launch their all-electric VNR model this year in California. The battery-electric version of the Volvo VNR model will deploy as demonstrations in this region throughout 2019. This is the first step in Volvo Trucks’ plan to commercialize all-electric heavy-duty trucks in North America.
Introduction of the Volvo VNR Electric models is part of a partnership called LIGHTS (Low Impact Green Heavy Transport Solutions), between Volvo Trucks, California’s South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) and industry leaders in transportation and electrical charging infrastructure. The project is a unique opportunity for Volvo to showcase a holistic approach to alternative energy sources in the freight transport industry as technology in electrification capabilities continue to grow. Through LIGHTS, Volvo will bring a completely sustainable freight solution with end-to-end electrification coordination.
“Electric trucks bring many unknowns and our holistic focus through the LIGHTS project will help our fleet partners transition securely and smoothly based on their individual needs regarding driving cycles, load capacity, uptime, range and other parameters,” said Johan Agebrand, Volvo Trucks North America Director of Product Marketing. “Within the project, we’ll look at everything from route analysis and battery optimization to servicing and financing. We always aim to offer high uptime and productivity.” The Volvo VNR Electric demonstration units will be based on the proven propulsion and energy storage technology currently being used in the Volvo FE Electric.
Ideal for applications like heavy urban distribution, drayage, and other regional applications, the Volvo VNR offers improved seating, instruments and controls that are designed to put the driver first. “The Volvo VNR Electric leverages the versatility of the new Volvo VNR series with a proven fully-electric powertrain, and represents a strategic stride toward a comprehensive electrified transport ecosystem,” said Peter Voorhoeve, President of Volvo Trucks North America.
Volvo Trucks will use 2019 to test road mapping and other technologies for the electric Volvo VNR. Companies looking to add the all-electric Volvo VNR model to their fleet can expect the formal release in the North American marketplace in 2020. Until then, Nextran Truck Centers has locations in Georgia, Florida and Alabama and is available for the sales and service needs of your current fleet. Give us a call at one of our 16 locations.
