Volta Trucks reveals prototype Zero chassis

Volta Trucks has unveiled its running prototype chassis of the Zero – the first purpose-built, fully electric 16-tonne truck.

Designed and built using the proposed production specification frame and drivetrain components of the finished vehicle, the Volta Zero includes a high-voltage battery supplied by Proterra, as well as the compact eAxle – an integrated rear axle, electric motor and transmission unit from Meritor.

The prototype chassis is due to start a testing programme on proving grounds soon, with the knowledge gained from this taken into the production of a pilot fleet of vehicles, expected to be delivered later this year.

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Volta Trucks said full-scale production of customer-specification vehicles will follow at the end of 2022.

Essa Al-Saleh, Volta Trucks chief executive, said: “The reveal of our first running prototype Volta Zero chassis is a major milestone on our journey to producing the first customer-specification vehicles in around 18 months’ time.

“The prototype will provide our designers and engineers with feedback and real-world data on the vehicle performance.”

The company recently announced an increase in its ECV line-up, with variants ranging from 7.5 to 19-tonnes.