Volvo Trucks has taken a monumental step towards cleaner and safer city transportation with the launch of its first-ever electric-only truck – the Volvo FM Low Entry. This powerful yet agile truck is specifically designed for urban environments, tackling diverse tasks like waste management, distribution, and construction, all while producing zero tailpipe emissions.
As cities worldwide tighten their belts on emissions, the demand for zero-emission trucks is soaring. Volvo Trucks answers this call with the FM Low Entry, a heavy-duty electric champion built for navigating the intricate streets and alleys of urban life.
“This electric truck is a game-changer for city operations,” declares Roger Alm, President of Volvo Trucks. “It combines power and maneuverability with exceptional driver comfort and safety, making it ideal for bustling urban centers. With the FM Low Entry, we’re further solidifying our commitment to electric transportation and empowering even more customers to reduce their carbon footprint.”
The FM Low Entry boasts a crucial advantage: a low driving position. This grants drivers unparalleled visibility, placing them in complete control of their surroundings. This feature has been recognized by Transport for London’s incoming Direct Vision Standard regulations, awarding the truck a perfect five-star rating for visibility – a significant achievement considering these regulations come into effect later this year for heavy-duty vehicles in London.
Building upon the iconic Volvo FM platform, the spacious cab has been cleverly lowered and moved forward. Stepping in and out is a breeze thanks to the low instep and flat floor, creating a comfortable and ergonomic workspace for drivers who spend long hours navigating city streets.
The FM Low Entry isn’t just about clean air; it’s about driver well-being. Volvo Dynamic Steering minimizes steering effort and reduces vibrations, while three seat options offer flexibility: zero, one, or three passenger seats. Opting for three seats places them strategically in the back of the cab, minimizing blind spots and further enhancing visibility.
With sales starting in the first quarter and production commencing in the second of 2024, the FM Low Entry will initially be available in Europe, Turkey, Australia, and South Korea. This marks a significant expansion of Volvo‘s electric truck lineup, bringing the total to six models. The company, which became the first global manufacturer to begin series production of heavy electric trucks in 2019, aims for half of its global sales to be electric by 2030.
Here’s a closer look at the FM Low Entry’s key features:
- Five-star Direct Vision Standard rating for exceptional visibility
- Volvo Dynamic Steering for effortless and vibration-free driving
- Three seat options: 0, 1, or 3 passengers (rear placement for optimal visibility)
- Low instep, flat floor, and well-positioned grab handles for easy and safe cab entry and exit
- Advanced Camera Monitoring System for enhanced awareness
- Two cab heights: Sleeper cab and Extended/High sleeper
- Axle configurations: 4×2, 6×2, 6×4, 8×2, 8×4
- Gross Vehicle Weight: 19-32 tonnes
- Motor: 330 kWh
- Battery: 360 kWh (4 batteries)
- Range: Up to 200 km (dependent on various factors)
- Charging: 250 kW (DC), 43 kW (AC)
- Wheelbase: 3,900-6,000 mm
The Volvo FM Low Entry is not just a truck; it’s a symbol of progress. It represents Volvo’s commitment to a cleaner and safer future for our cities, one silent revolution at a time. With its combination of power, efficiency, and driver-centric design, the FM Low Entry is poised to become a mainstay on urban streets worldwide, paving the way for a sustainable future of transportation.
