As orignally reported on Commercial Motor, Volvo Trucks UK and Ireland MD Christian Coolsaet was officially handed the International Truck of the Year (IToY) trophy in front of the award-winning FH Electric.
Commercial Motor editor Will Shiers commented: “It was only a matter of time until a battery-powered truck was awarded the title. While electric trucks certainly aren’t suitable for all hauliers, those early adopters are fast discovering that it is a well-engineered, clever bit of kit. I have spent a lot of time behind the wheel of one, and it’s clear that Volvo has done far more than simply electrifying a diesel truck.”
“We are so proud of this achievement and all the hard work that the team have put into this truck. I’m sure other electric trucks will win this award, but the FH Electric will always be the first,” said Christian Coolsaet.
In total Volvo has 20 trucks spread across its two stands, including several UK premieres. These include Aero-cabbed versions of the FH, FH Electric and FH16. This was also the first showing of the new zero-tailpipe-emission FM Low Entry. The 8x4 Tridem, which is rated 5 stars in London’s Direct Vision Standard (DVS), features a Thompsons tipper body.
Another UK first is the FM 8x4 B-ride tipper on the manufacturer’s outside stand. It is the first truck to be fitted with an extended front bumper, which together with Volvo’s Camera Monitoring System, helps it to achieve a DVS 3-star rating.
