Supplied by Guili Chemello, New Truck Sales Manager, Volvo Truck and Bus South & East, each five-star Direct Vision Standard rated rigid is equipped with four traction batteries – providing a total capacity of 360 kWh – plus Boughton bodywork. They arrive as fleet additions for Powerday and will be used to service the business’s wide customer base across the capital.
Edward Crossan, CEO, Powerday, says: “Having successfully introduced two Volvo FE Electric skiploaders in 2024, we believe the time is right to trial electric hookloaders as the next step. The FM Low Entry gives us a strong platform to move faster on safety and sustainability simultaneously, reinforcing our drive to cut emissions while improving how we work.
“In a carbon intensive transport environment, progress comes from innovation and the willingness to adopt new technology early, and we see Volvo Trucks as the ideal collaborator in achieving our decarbonisation goals. We will keep testing, learning, and investing in lower carbon technology that can earn its place in the fleet through proven performance, reliability, and day-to-day usability.”
Sustainable safety-focused design
Based on Volvo’s well-liked FM model, the zero tailpipe-emission battery electric FM Low Entry combines near-silent running plus excellent visibility for the driver thanks to a spacious cab which has been lowered and moved forward, the low instep and flat floor, making it ideal for city operations.
Onboard safety features also include Adaptive Cruise Control with Forward Collision Warning and Advanced Emergency Braking, Driver Alert Support, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Change Support, and Side Collision Avoidance Support systems.
Complementing the trucks’ inherent safety-driven design, Powerday has also opted to specify the Volvo Dynamic Steering system for effortless steering and reduced vibrations, as well as full air suspension.
Before placing the order, Volvo Truck and Bus Centre South & East worked closely with Powerday to carry out a detailed route simulation to ensure the trucks were specified with the optimal battery configuration for their intended duties. They will be recharged using the previously installed 150 kW DC charger at Powerday’s Willesden Junction site.
Both rigids – each expected to clock up to 30,000 km annually – are backed by a comprehensive five-year Volvo Gold Contract for ultimate peace of mind. The contract guarantees the performance of the traction batteries beyond the two-year warranty that comes with the truck as standard.
