Video: Volvo tests VNR electric trucks

Volvo Group has unveiled its electric trucks which are taking part in a US pilot programme.

The Volvo Low Impact Green Heavy Transport Solutions (LIGHTS) project is a collaboration with 15 public and private partners.

It aims to demonstrate the viability of all-electric freight hauling in high-density traffic and urban areas.

Volvo contributed $36.7 million towards the $90m project which is run by California’s South Coast Air Quality Management District

“The Volvo LIGHTS project demonstrates that for the entire endeavor to come together, it takes more than just the truck. It’s the delivery of the complete eco-system for zero-emission, heavy-duty transport, and taking responsibility for that ecosystem,” Volvo Trucks North America president Peter Voorhoeve says.

“You can only achieve this by having a common goal, fully integrated collaboration amongst all stakeholders, and agreeing to be pioneers together.”

The Volvo VNR Electric trucks will be put into real-world commercial operations with two of California’s leading freight companies, Dependable Supply Chain Services and NFI.

In North America, the Volvo VNR Electric will become the ideal truck model for short and regional haul applications like heavy urban distribution, drayage and other applications where electric trucks will first have the greatest impact.

Volvo Trucks in North America will begin the first phase of serial production and commercial offering of the Volvo VNR Electric in late 2020.