CD Dodd, a mining services company specialising in refurbishment, rehabilitation, and recycling, has received Western Australia’s first OEM heavy-duty electric truck, a Volvo FM Electric model.
The vehicle handover ceremony included Member for Forrestfield Stephen Price MLA and Max Winkless, a key figure in establishing Volvo Trucks’ presence in Australia.
WA’s Minister for Energy, Environment, and Climate Action, Reece Whitby, stated: “Electric trucks will be fundamental in our efforts to decarbonise Western Australian roads, especially for transporting freight in and around urban areas. As many of our freight trucks cover long distances, decarbonising our roads requires a blend of solutions, but electric trucks are available today, and for the right jobs, they can start helping us decarbonise now.”
According to Volvo Group President Martin Merrick, the transport sector accounts for 18% of the state’s emissions. Merrick announced that Volvo Group Australia plans to manufacture electric vehicles at its Queensland facility by 2027, continuing its 50-year manufacturing presence in Australia.
The Volvo FM electric truck features a 300km range, 490kW power output, and 50-tonne gross combination weight capacity.
CD Dodd CEO Chris Dodd commented: “We champion technologies that enhance safety, efficiency, and sustainability. The Volvo FM Electric will be a vital part of our operations, and our drivers can’t wait to get behind the wheel.”
The delivery coincides with the approaching 60th anniversary of Winkless introducing Volvo trucks to Australia, after collaborating with the manufacturer to develop models suited for Australian conditions.