Volvo’s electric truck will have a range of 600 km

Volvo is putting the finishing touches on the development of its large electric semi, the FH Electric, which will have a range of 600 km.

Subtly, European manufacturers are diligently working on electric products. And it must be said that their expertise in heavy-duty vehicles is quite remarkable. For under the guise of ordinary tractors, market leaders such as Volvo, Mercedes, Renault, and others already offer ranges equal to or greater than that of the self-proclaimed star, the Tesla Semi.

Why such urgency among manufacturers to electrify their trucks? Because Europe will soon start imposing heavy anti-pollution fines on the laggards, and if it’s going to cost, it’s better to decarbonize and invest in development. This is rapid progress, and it’s quite a good thing.

Now it is up to the European Union to develop electric corridors on major European routes to support this change.

On sale in 2025

The second half of 2025 will thus mark the arrival of a significantly evolved version of the electric semi from Volvo, the FH Electric. This vehicle will be able to cover 600 km on a single charge while towing a load of 40 tons.

« Our new flagship electric model will complement our wide range of electric trucks and will allow for zero-emission transport even over long distances. It will be an ideal solution for transport companies whose trucks travel a high annual mileage and are strongly committed to reducing CO2 emissions », says Roger Alm, President of Volvo Trucks.

The secret to the 600 km range lies in Volvo’s new transmission technology, known as the e-axle, which frees up space for a significantly larger battery capacity on board. More efficient batteries, an improved battery management system, and better efficiency of the powertrain also contribute to the extended range.

« The transport sector accounts for 7% of global carbon emissions. Battery electric trucks are essential tools for reducing the climate footprint. In addition to the significant environmental gains they provide, electric trucks offer drivers a much more pleasant working environment, with much lower levels of noise and vibrations », adds Roger Alm.

Since launching its electric range, Volvo has sold 3,800 trucks worldwide. This is still a drop in the bucket, but Volvo Trucks has set the goal of being 100% zero CO2 emissions by 2040. And 2040 is just around the corner! To achieve this, they will rely on electric, hydrogen, and combustion engines powered by renewable fuels. It’s less virtuous but still better than diesel…

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