Knowles Logistics has replaced three more diesel trucks with Volvo FM Electric tractor units to be used on its food and drink group Princes contract.

The 4x2s will operate with tri-axle curtainsiders at 42-tonnes on short shunt work and the haulier said they would run on 100% clean energy – 15% of which is generated via on-site solar panels – and will collectively save 260,000 kg of C02 per annum.

The FMs will be charged up using a 150kW fast charger, with top-ups carried out during the drivers’ rest breaks.

It added that this ensured the vehicles can be double shifted and remained in operation 24/7.

They will run continuously between Princes’ manufacturing sites 10 miles away in Long Sutton and two miles away in Wisbech, directly into Knowles’ warehousing facilities and each clocking-up around 80,000km per year.

Alex Knowles, MD at Knowles Logistics, said: “As one of the fastest growing transport providers in the country, this is a great milestone on our sustainability journey.

“This latest investment is a clear demonstration of how we work with customers to reduce the carbon footprint of their logistics operations.

“What we’ve been able to achieve with these FM Electrics is nothing short of impressive,” he added.

Knowles Logistics has taken delivery of three new Volvo FM Electric 4x2 tractor units for operation on a contract with Princes.

Knowles Logistics has taken delivery of three new Volvo FM Electric 4x2 tractor units for operation on a contract with Princes.

Source: Volvo Trucks UK

“They perform as direct replacements for diesel vehicles on a factory clearance application, with fast charging meaning they stop for very short periods whilst topping up.

“What’s more, by carefully planning our loading configuration, we can take full advantage of being able to operate at 42-tonnes on five axles.

“This is a weight-critical application, and we’re pretty much hitting the same payload figures as a diesel truck achieves.”

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