Car FYI's 2021 Electrified Haulers Showcase: The Volvo VNR Electric

Photo Credit: Volvo Trucks North America

Since 1999, Volvo Group and its passenger car brand that operated under the same name and logo have functioned as separate entities. While the Volvo car brand (now owned by China’s Geely auto company) has made a recent pledge to shift towards a fully electric lineup by 2030, their former Swedish parent has concocted their own electrified plans for the heavy truck market. 

An extension of Volvo’s VNR lineup developed for the North American market, a fully electric version of the Class 8 transport truck. Retaining the modern, purposeful appearance of existing diesel-powered machines, the Volvo VNR Electric model range is created as short range hauler. For Canada, the truck is available in three configurations consisting of a 4x2 straight truck, 4x2 Tractor and 6x2 Tractor. 

Paired with a two-speed I-Shift automated transmission, a potent electric drive system is installed in the VNR Electric line generating 455 horsepower and 4,051 lb-ft of maximum torque. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of the three electric models is between 33,200 and 82,000 pounds while maximum top speed is 65 miles per hour. The VNR Electric’s 254 kilowatt-hour battery pack stores enough energy to allow the straight truck configuration to operate at ranges of up 150 miles. Tractor variants of the Volvo VNR Electric line have a maximum driving range of 120 miles. Tailored for local distribution and transport duties, the VNR Electric products are designed to be charged quickly with 150-kilowatt charging replenishing 80 percent of the battery’s capacity in 70 minutes.

Photo Credit: Volvo Trucks North America

Production of the Volvo VNR Electric had just started in the early part of 2021 for the North American market. On April 13 of 2021, an American food services logistics supplier called Quality Custom Distributions committed to purchase 14 VNR Electric trucks in Southern California. 

In Canada, the Volvo VNR Electric trucks are advertised with eligible incentives in two provinces. Through the Clean BC Go Electric Commercial Vehicle Pilots Program in British Columbia, customers can recuperate up to 30 percent of the costs associated with electric trucks as well as related charging hardware. In Quebec, up to 45 percent or a maximum $175,000 per truck is available through the Écocamionnage Program.