Volvo sets new range records with its new FH Aero Electric electric truck

The heavy vehicles division of Volvo unveiled in Gothenburg the new FH Aero Electric, an electric truck designed to complete full working days of long-distance haulage without needing to recharge. The Swedish manufacturer aims to position itself as a pioneer in this category, offering a range of up to 700 kilometres, significantly ahead of its direct competitors.

Volvo stands out for the usable capacity of the batteries in its new electric truck. The vehicle incorporates eight battery packs that add up to a total installed capacity of 780 kWh, of which 725 kWh are usable. This represents roughly 93% utilisation and around 100 kWh more than any current rival. Volvo uses NCA cells from Samsung SDI and, thanks to extensive testing and improvements to the monitoring software, has managed to release more energy without compromising safety or durability.

This advantage is notable compared with competitors such as Renault Trucks, which offers 624 kWh net using the same pack, Mercedes-Benz with the eActros 600 with 600 kWh, or MAN with 560 kWh. As a result, the final outcome is greater real-world range that allows more demanding daily operations.

Limitations to consider

Not everything is an advantage, however, as achieving this result has also required some compromises. To house the batteries, the FH Aero Electric is only available with the new electric axle (e-axle), which rules out configurations with a traditional central transmission. The kerb weight of the tractor unit reaches 13.3 tonnes, so Volvo initially offers the long-distance version in a 6×2 configuration with a steerable rear axle. This increases the permissible load on the rear axle and helps maintain a reasonable payload. Although the complete vehicle exceeds 17 metres in length, it remains within European legal limits.

Operators who prioritise payload will be able to choose versions with between two and six battery packs, reducing weight and length. In addition, central transmission options are retained for 4×2 and 6×4 configurations, which reach up to 470 km of range.

Production of the FH Aero Electric will begin in September at the Belgian Ghent plant, with orders open from 15 June. Volvo will gradually phase out the first generation, except for the FM Low Entry for municipal applications.

Other highlights include the removal of AC charging, the incorporation of MCS charging ports of up to 700 kW -standard on the Extended Range version- located only on the left-hand side, and an L-shaped battery design that optimises space. The battery warranty covers 80 per cent state of health for six years or 720,000 km.

With the new FH Aero Electric, Volvo responds to the demands of the long-haul market, where range is one of the decisive factors.