Like many truck manufacturers globally, Volvo Trucks has been diligently exploring electric vehicle (EV) technology. However, all of its previous EVs have been built on platforms designed for internal combustion engine vehicles. Until now.
The Volvo FM Low Entry represents a groundbreaking step for the Swedish company, marking its first EV-only truck platform. Set to enter service in key markets including Europe, Turkey, and South Korea, this platform is tailored for a range of tasks, from waste collection to goods distribution and construction site operations.
The FM Low Entry is equipped with four batteries that have a combined capacity of up to 360 kWh. That means that the truck will be able to deliver up to 124 miles (200 km) of range. The battery will send power to a 483 hp (360 kW/489 PS) motor and it will have a gross vehicle weight of 19 to 32 tons.
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Volvo Trucks, which is not affiliated with Volvo Cars, has designed the platform to be quite flexible. It will feature five distinct axle configurations: 4X2, 6X2, 6X4, 8X2, and 8X4. Additionally, buyers can select models with one to four seats and opt for an extended high sleeper cab, tailoring the truck to various operational needs and preferences.
The Swedish company says that ensuring the driver has great visibility was important to it. Indeed, the FM Low Entry has earned five stars on the UK’s new Direct Vision standard for heavy-duty vehicles. It also comes with Volvo’s new advanced Camera Monitor System to provide the driver with the best view of the area surrounding their truck possible.
“This zero-emission truck is a great addition to our electric range, perfectly suited for city transports and designed with the driver in mind,” said Roger Alm, Volvo Trucks president. “It’s powerful, yet smooth to drive and easy to maneuver. The new Volvo FM Low Entry is perfectly in line with our ambitions to expand our electric offer, enabling even more customers to reduce their carbon emissions.”
Sales of the FM Low Entry are set to begin this quarter, and production will kick off in the second quarter of 2024. An important part of Volvo Trucks’ plan for the future, the company expects 50 percent of its global sales to be fully electric by 2030.
