Volvo FL Electric: New Urban Champion to Challenge Tesla?

Volvo Trucks has unveiled a new version of its electric truck, the Volvo FL Electric, designed specifically for urban transportation needs. First introduced in 2019, this truck is now available in a configuration with a gross weight of around 14 tons, making it a more accessible and cost-effective solution for companies operating in urban environments. The Volvo FL Electric is equipped with an electric motor producing 180 kW, approximately 241 horsepower, which is crucial for urban driving conditions, allowing for brisk acceleration and smooth driving experiences.

Thanks to its compact dimensions, the truck is suitable for narrow city streets and frequent stops, allowing for efficient “door-to-door” delivery.

The new version of the Volvo FL Electric comes with various wheelbase options, axle configurations, and battery setups. This allows operators to tailor the truck to specific urban transport and delivery requirements. The battery placement does not hinder the installation of bodies on the frame, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of bodies and equipment. The vehicle’s minimum width is about 2.4 meters, enhancing maneuverability on narrow streets and in loading zones.

The latest battery system is now available on FL Electric models with a gross weight of around 14 tons, as well as 16 and 18-ton variants. These batteries are also used in Volvo FE Electric models, which support a gross weight of up to 26 tons, expanding the application of technology for more challenging urban and regional tasks.

In the wake of Tesla’s bold moves in the electric semi-truck segment, which include promises of longer ranges and faster charging times, Volvo’s strategic focus on urban efficiency and versatility signals a competitive approach to capturing the evolving market. To date, Volvo’s electric trucks are offered in many markets, including Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Australia.