Volvo Launches FH Electric Truck for Heavy Loads
Written with artificial intelligence from it.motor1.com.
Volvo Trucks has introduced the FH Electric, designed to transport up to 80 tons with an extended range of up to 450 kilometers. Sales will commence in Nordic countries and the Netherlands starting in early 2027.
Introduction of the FH Electric
Volvo Trucks is expanding its electric truck lineup with the new FH Electric, specifically designed for heavier road combinations. This vehicle targets segments previously not served by battery-powered options, capable of carrying a gross combined weight of up to 80 tons.
Key Features and Specifications
The FH Electric is engineered for markets where weight limits exceed the European average, particularly configurations that include rigid trucks with bodies such as dump trucks, cranes, compactors, or concrete mixers coupled with a trailer. Sales will begin in Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Switzerland, with a gradual rollout starting early in 2027.
- Range:
- Up to 450 km with a gross weight of 64 tons.
- Decrease to 420 km at 74 or 76 tons, as permitted in Sweden and Finland, respectively.
Volvo notes that actual range may vary based on external factors, including wind, temperature, and driving style. The truck features updated batteries with 640 kWh of usable energy, optimized for cold climates and equipped with an improved charging monitoring system.
Charging Capabilities
Charging options include:
- Megawatt Charging System (MCS): Allows for rapid charging at 680 kW, taking approximately 36 minutes to go from 20% to 80%.
- CCS2: Provides 360 kW charging, requiring about 70 minutes for the same increase.
This charging time aligns well with standard driving breaks, facilitating operational efficiency.
Enhanced Performance for Heavy Loads
The FH Electric also introduces hub-reduction axles, which increase ground clearance and starting capacity for heavier loads. Typical applications include timber transport and small construction tasks, particularly on well-maintained roads where enhanced capability translates into increased payload.
According to Jan Hjelmgren, Senior Vice President of Product Management at Volvo Trucks, the launch aligns with the company's commitment to zero-emission vehicles tailored for heavy loads and long distances, contributing to lower transport costs and environmental impact. The new model shares the powertrain with the recently introduced electric FH, FM, and FMX, which won the International Truck of the Year 2026 award. It features an 8-speed transmission designed for electric motors and is available in various cab configurations, excluding the XXL version.
Notably, the FH Electric includes an electric power take-off (e-PTO), eliminating the need for a separate diesel generator for trailer refrigeration units, a common requirement in temperature-controlled transport.