Reed Boardall has enhanced its fleet with electric technology, aiming for sustainability and efficiency.
- Two new 42-tonne FM Electric 4×2 tractor units have been added by Reed Boardall, marking a significant step in their green initiative.
- These electric trucks, equipped with advanced features, are now operational on a shuttle route to the Boroughbridge site.
- The transition to electric trucks received positive feedback from drivers, thanks to Volvo’s training programme.
- Reed Boardall anticipates substantial carbon emission reductions with these new additions.
Reed Boardall, in its ongoing commitment to sustainability, has integrated two 42-tonne FM Electric 4×2 Volvo tractor units into its operations. These new electric vehicles join a robust fleet, which now includes a significant number of zero-emission trucks with a quarter running on gas. Aimed at enhancing local collection shuttles, these trucks operate between the company’s Boroughbridge site and collection points.
The trucks, powered by three electric motors, produce an impressive 666 horsepower and offer 2,400 Nm of continuous torque. This output is managed by an electromobility traction control system, particularly useful for maintaining control on slippery surfaces. Moreover, the trucks feature varied drive modes allowing operators to optimise performance, comfort, and energy use.
Driver feedback for these electric units has been overwhelmingly positive. The full air suspension and the Drive++ package, offering features such as dual armrests and advanced air conditioning systems, have contributed significantly to driver comfort. According to Stevland Town, Reed Boardall’s Managing Director for transport, the initial driver apprehensions quickly dissipated, with many expressing a preference for the electric trucks over diesel alternatives.
Volvo’s comprehensive training has played a crucial role in this transition. The custom training ensured that drivers could extract maximum efficiency and comfort from the new vehicles, thus facilitating a smoother shift to electric mobility. The company highlights that the vehicles are backed by five-year Volvo Gold Contracts, which cover maintenance and monitoring crucial systems, ensuring high uptime and reliability.
Stevland Town emphasised the move towards electric vehicles as part of a larger strategy to embrace non-fossil fuel options, driven by rapid advancements in electric technology. Although he acknowledges that electric trucks may not yet suit all operational demands, their deployment has exceeded expectations, underscoring the potential for further expansion along viable routes.
The successful integration of these electric trucks signals Reed Boardall’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and innovation in logistics.
