LondonEnergy adopts Volvo FM Electric for efficient waste management
The new electric semi-truck will be primarily used to collect unrecyclable waste
In a notable shift towards sustainability, LondonEnergy has introduced a Volvo FM Electric 6×2 tractor unit to its fleet. The company, known for its waste management and resource expertise, plans to put the electric truck to work immediately, highlighting a significant move towards greener operations.
Gareth Stephens, Transport and Logistics Manager at LondonEnergy, explained the decision behind choosing the Volvo FM Electric. "We evaluated other options available in the market, but quickly concluded that the Volvo product is the most mature offering available," he said. "The Volvo team, both in the UK and in Sweden, went above and beyond to help us fully understand how an electric truck could benefit our operations. We are excited to get started and use the new truck."
Operational role of the electric truck
The new electric semi-truck will be primarily used to collect unrecyclable waste from LondonEnergy’s transfer station in Islington. A portion of this waste will be delivered to the company’s energy center in Edmonton. Here, it will be converted into renewable electricity, enough to power 80,000 homes annually. Any remaining dry mixed waste will be transported to a local Material Recycling Facility (MRF) for further processing.
Technical specifications
The Volvo FM Electric delivered to LondonEnergy is equipped with six batteries powering three electric motors, generating a continuous 666 horsepower and over 1,770 lb-ft of torque. This power is transmitted to the wheels via a standard Volvo I-Shift gearbox, ensuring a smooth and ultra-quiet driving experience.
The truck boasts a range of approximately 300 km (about 185 miles) and can be recharged in under 2.5 hours with a 250kW DC fast charger. Alternatively, it can be charged overnight using a 43kW AC charger.
Electrifying commercial fleets
The adoption of electric trucks like the Volvo FM Electric is part of a broader trend among major commercial companies. With growing pressure from new legislation, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals, and activist investors, many companies are now seriously considering the benefits of electrifying their vehicle fleets.
Fuel savings and environmental impact
Electrifying vehicle fleets can lead to significant fuel savings, lower maintenance costs, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. These benefits are crucial as companies strive to meet stricter environmental regulations and achieve their sustainability targets. For LondonEnergy, the decision to incorporate an electric truck aligns with their commitment to reducing their carbon footprint and promoting renewable energy.
LondonEnergy’s acquisition of the Volvo FM Electric marks a significant step towards sustainable waste management. By integrating electric trucks into their operations, they not only enhance their efficiency but also contribute to a cleaner environment. This move underscores the growing importance of sustainable practices in the waste management industry and sets a precedent for other companies to follow.
As the automotive industry evolves, the shift towards electric vehicles is becoming increasingly prominent. LondonEnergy’s proactive approach demonstrates how companies can adapt to this change, leveraging advanced technology to improve their operations and environmental impact.