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 200 km of range. The battery
will send power to a 483 hp motor and it will have a gross
vehicle weight of 19 to 32 tons. 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.
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.
