After successful trials, leading supply chain management company Armstrong Logistics has added a new Volvo FM Electric truck to its 86 strong fleet of vehicles, which is now primarily 100% Volvo.
It is a first for the expanding business and will operate out of its 377,000 sq ft consolidated distribution centre at Magna Park, Lutterworth.
The new Volvo FM features three electric motors producing 666hp with an I-shift automated 12-speed gearbox and suitable for gross train weights up to 42 tonnes. The total energy storage of the vehicle, equipped with the maximum six batteries, is 540 kWH to provide instant power and energy savings. The charge time for the vehicle is between 8-10 hours with an AC charger, or around 2.5 hours with DC power.
The 4×2 wheeled tractor unit has full air suspension to provide for a smooth ride. It also features the GSR2 safety package which includes moving off information, cyclist and pedestrian side sensors, reverse camera, driver alert support, tyre pressure monitoring, intelligent speed assist, alcohol lock preparation interface, emergency brake lights and a FORS 3 camera system with left turn speaker.
The new electric vehicle, together with its Gray and Adams trailer, will feature specially designed livery. Its electric powertrain also means quiet operation and zero tailpipe emissions, making it ideally suited for local deliveries.
The Volvo FM Electric is one of several new vehicles in which Armstrong Logistics has invested. In the last three years alone, the company has taken delivery of a whole fleet of Volvo FH with I-Save, Volvo FM LNG and regular FM diesel models, all acquired with a view to helping the company to accelerate its decarbonisation goals. Armstrong is also ordering a Volvo FL Electric rigid.
All the vehicles have been supplied by Volvo dealer Truck and Bus Wales and West with which Armstrong Logistics has had a relationship for many years. The FM Electric is on a full five-year repair and maintenance contract.
Truck and Bus Wales and West Managing Director Billy Nairn commented: “Armstrong is one of only a handful of UK customers to have embraced every aspect of the Volvo powertrain line-up – including electric, diesel and LNG models. The introduction of our environmentally friendly, fuel saving and zero tailpipe emission trucks are making a significant contribution to Armstrong’s sustainability targets and we look forward to continuing to support them in achieving their goals.”
Armstrong Logistics Chairman Justin Armstrong is excited about the new opportunities the electric vehicle will bring to both the company and its customers and praised Volvo for its quality and reliability.
“Our new Volvo vehicles have played a major role in helping to reduce our carbon footprint and improve our sustainability as we continue on our net zero journey.
“Making positive contributions to reducing our emissions is something that is continually top of mind at Armstrong Logistics and an ethos which we look to apply to every aspect of our operation.
“This latest addition to our fleet is a positive milestone for the business. We are incredibly proud to be showcasing our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint by embracing the latest vehicle technologies currently on the market with the new Volvo FM Electric.”
