Electric in Brazil

After announcing it in the last Fenatran, Volvo Trucks of Brazil is carrying out regular operations with electric trucks with tests from transport companies.

“The reports have been very positive. In addition to the total absence of emissions, carriers have also highlighted the great energy efficiency, the absence of noise, the very low vibrations and the high comfort for the driver. They also highlight the exceptional level of safety on board, in line with Volvo’s ‘Zero Accidents’ vision,” said Wilson Lirmann, President of the Volvo Group Latin America. The trips are being made by carriers from various sectors and in various regions of Brazil. The objective is to understand the expectations and demands of potential customers, and collect technical data on the different applications.

The routes combine urban and road sections, according to the demand of each logistics operator. Most of the time, the vehicles are loaded in the production units and take the cargo to the distribution centers or even to the final destination.

The Volvo FM Electric is rated at 490 kW (660 PS), with gross combined weight options up to 44 tonnes. It can be equipped with three electric motors and up to six batteries (540 kWh).

With a range of up to 300 km, it is ideal for operations in urban centers. Charging can be done at stations located in the carrier’s own yard and can take between 1h30 and 8h, depending on the number of batteries.