Fenn Logistics worked closely with its local Volvo Trucks dealer, Hartshorne Group, to calculate the exact routes that the electric trucks would be best suited for.
Gary Major, Managing Director at Fenn Logistics, says: “For the last 18 months, more than half of our fleet has migrated to HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) fuel and we are always looking at the latest technologies to deliver carbon savings for our customers. This first move to electric power is the next step of that process.
“It’s been a detailed project with Volvo to prove the concept. We looked at the data and modelling to make sure we found the optimal application. It’s been very pleasing to get these two new FM Electrics onto the road, immediately helping our customer make big strides towards its sustainability targets.”
The two FM Electrics will operate on the same routes every day, transporting goods from the customer’s factory to its East Midlands Gateway distribution centre, before they go out for delivery nationwide. The trucks will work double-shifts, moving six loads across a 24-hour cycle, with charging taking place between runs.
Each FM Electric is equipped with the maximum six batteries, unlocking a driving range of approximately 300 km. Power is supplied by three electrical motors which generate 666 hp and 2,400 Nm of continuous torque. An onboard electromobility traction control system helps manage output on slippery surfaces, while different drive modes are available to set the desired performance, comfort, and energy usage levels.
The trucks – which benefit from spacious Globetrotter cabs – utilise Volvo’s standard I-Shift gearbox, which delivers a smooth and ultra-quiet driving experience by constantly evaluating information about speed, weight, road grade and torque demand.
Volvo’s Camera Monitoring System (CMS) replaces the traditional exterior mirrors, helping to improve aerodynamic performance, while boosting safety and visibility. The CMS increases the driver’s field of view and performs strongly in rainy and dark conditions, direct sunlight and even when driving in tunnels.
“I have been a strong supporter of the Volvo product for decades, and their help and guidance when we made the decision to go electric has proved invaluable,” adds Major. “It’s still very early days but the FM Electrics have made a strong initial impression as you would expect from a Volvo truck. We have actually taken on two new drivers who applied specifically to drive the electric trucks and hope this this could be a pattern for the future, where drivers also look at matters such as the environment as part of their decision making when selecting employers.”
Both new FMs – expected to clock up roughly 115,000 km per year – are backed by a full Volvo Gold contract which guarantees maximum uptime and covers all maintenance and repairs, including proactive monitoring of batteries and associated components.
Fenn Logistics provides transport, warehousing and supply chain services from its base near Burton-on-Trent for clients mainly in the food retail sector.