DHL launches first Australian electric truck 

DHL has stimulated its progress to electric vehicles (EVs) with the first Australian transportation of Volvo FL Electric with second-generation battery packs. 

The updated battery packs will give an expansion in range over the past FL Electric reach, with the transportation being the first of its sort in Australia of the second-generation Volvo FL Electric. 

The Volvo FL consolidates a 600-volt engine with a two-speed transmission to convey a 5,500kg payload, dispensing internal ignition power, while four 66 kWh Gen 2 battery packs give power and a regenerative slowing mechanism and transmission tops up the batteries each time it decelerates.

DHL Supply Chain Chief Steve Thompsett says that the organisation is satisfied to take conveyance of the Volvo FL, with its class innovation, in Australia. 

“Globally, DHL Supply Chain has a strong understanding of the climate crisis and a head-start in reducing the environmental impact of its operations. 

Updating our fleet to zero emissions vehicles is a priority in Australia, and it combines well with the measures we’re taking to reduce our carbon footprint across our operations,” Thompsett said. 

Fitted with a tautliner van body equipped for conveying eight standard pallets, the Volvo Fl utilises its 300km territory to support different DHL Inventory network clients. 

“The breadth of DHL Supply Chain’s global footprint means that our company has already trialled and rolled out Volvo’s electric truck offerings in Europe, meaning that we could forgo an Australian trial and go straight to investing in these climate-benefitting vehicles,” Thompsett added. 

DHL Supply Chain Senior VP of Transport, Bill Rolfe, said the organisation’s send-off of the Volvo FL Electric is in accordance with the company’s aim of constant improvement.

“The addition of Volvo FL electric trucks is a simple way for us to transition to battery-electric technology, with a useful driving range, proven reliability and an intuitive driving experience that will resonate with our staff,” Rolfe said.