Ringway leads the charge in sustainable transport with its new electric truck.
- The UK highways sector welcomes its first 26-tonne electric vehicle by Ringway.
- This initiative marks a significant step towards eco-friendly road maintenance solutions.
- Ringway’s adoption of the Volvo FE Electric highlights a commitment to zero emissions.
- Despite higher costs, the environmental benefits of the electric truck are undeniable.
Ringway has taken a pioneering step in the UK highways sector by introducing a 26-tonne Volvo FE Electric 6×2 rigid truck with a tipper grab body and low-entry cab. This vehicle marks the first of its kind in the sector, replacing a similar-sized diesel counterpart within the Hounslow Highways fleet. The truck is anticipated to operate continuously, covering more than 30,000km annually.
Ringway’s operations include routine, reactive, and cyclical highway maintenance for the London Borough of Hounslow. The new electric truck will serve an extensive network, including 451km of local roads, numerous bridges, structures, streetlights, and drainage assets. Managing director Mitesh Solanki stated that the shift towards electric vehicles reflects the growing importance of sustainability in their sector, aiming to accelerate this transition across the business.
Solanki emphasised the bespoke build’s necessity to provide flexibility, indicating that the Volvo FE Electric platform allowed Ringway to innovate. Working within London’s ultra-low emissions zone, the electric truck promises not only to meet but exceed operational expectations, delivering an environmentally conscious performance devoid of tailpipe emissions. This strategic move aligns with Ringway’s commitment to Hounslow’s green goals, which include improving air quality, fostering biodiversity, and innovating to decrease carbon footprints.
The vehicle’s bespoke body was constructed by Thompsons, featuring a Palfinger Epsilon M135L grab crane and adhering to the direct vision standard (DVS) requirements with bus-style doors and comprehensive camera systems. Notably, Ringway is the first UK company to order a right-hand drive version of Volvo’s FM Low Entry all-electric truck, reinforcing its leadership in green technology.
Despite the electric truck’s cost being approximately 32% higher over its lifetime than a diesel alternative, a Ringway spokesperson described the project as an environmental initiative and a rigorous test of electric trucks in demanding conditions. The commitment underscores Ringway’s dedication to environmental stewardship even amidst increased financial considerations.
The introduction of Ringway’s electric truck heralds a new era of sustainable road maintenance.
