Joseph Parr (Alco) has received a Volvo FM Electric 6x2 rigid truck, marking what is believed to be the first zero-tailpipe heavy-duty truck in use by a builders’ merchant in the UK.
The FM electric truck will primarily operate from Joseph Parr’s Bradford depot, handling back-to-base customer deliveries. This acquisition was partially funded by a grant from Bradford City Council, which will monitor the truck’s environmental impact using data from Volvo Connect, the manufacturer’s fleet management system. This effort aligns with the city’s goals to reduce carbon emissions in its Clean Air Zone and surrounding areas.
“When the decision was made to go down the electric route, Volvo Trucks was the obvious choice. We already had one Volvo in our fleet, and they are clearly leading in electric vehicle technology,” said Michael Beaumont, Joint Managing Director at Joseph Parr (Alco)
The new FM Electric will replace a diesel model from a different manufacturer in Joseph Parr’s five-strong HGV delivery fleet, aiming to reduce the company’s Carbon footprint.
The truck has a 5,200mm wheelbase and a rear steer tag axle. It is equipped with a Palfinger BM 26 crane and powered by two electric motors that generate 450hp, with a gross vehicle weight of 28 tonnes. Despite the additional weight of the batteries, Beaumont noted a slight payload advantage over its traditional 26-tonne diesel trucks, which is beneficial given the trucks often operate at full weight capacity.
A newly installed 43kW AC Charger at the company’s depot allows the truck to charge overnight for next-day deliveries. In addition to Bradford, the FM Electric will also be used for operations in Leeds, Wakefield, Huddersfield, Halifax, and Manchester.
The FM Electric is covered by a five-year Volvo Gold Contract, which includes all maintenance at the local dealership in Birstall and ensures traction battery performance beyond the standard two-year warranty for added customer assurance.
