Waste and recycling company Powerday has added two electric Volvo FM Low Entry 8x4 hookloaders to its fleet, becoming the first UK operator to deploy the model with hookloader bodywork.
The London-based business will use the vehicles across its operations in the capital, continuing the expansion of its electric truck fleet following the introduction of two Volvo FE Electric skiploaders in 2024.
The new trucks are equipped with Boughton hookloader bodywork and four traction batteries, providing a total battery capacity of 360kWh. Both vehicles also carry a five-star Direct Vision Standard rating.
Powerday chief executive Edward Crossan said the company viewed the new vehicles as the next stage in evaluating electric truck technology for waste collection operations.
“Having successfully introduced two Volvo FE Electric skiploaders in 2024, we believe the time is right to trial electric hookloaders as the next step,” he said.
“The FM Low Entry gives us a strong platform to move faster on safety and sustainability simultaneously, reinforcing our drive to cut emissions while improving how we work.
“In a carbon intensive transport environment, progress comes from innovation and the willingness to adopt new technology early, and we see Volvo Trucks as the ideal collaborator in achieving our decarbonisation goals.
“We will keep testing, learning, and investing in lower carbon technology that can earn its place in the fleet through proven performance, reliability, and day-to-day usability.”
The FM Low Entry electric is based on Volvo’s FM platform and has been designed for urban operations. The cab sits lower and further forward than a conventional FM, improving driver visibility and access.
Safety systems specified on the vehicles include adaptive cruise control with forward collision warning and emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane change support and side collision avoidance support. Powerday has also opted for Volvo Dynamic Steering and full air suspension.
According to Volvo Trucks, a route simulation was carried out before the order was placed to assess battery requirements for the vehicles’ operating profile.
The trucks will be recharged using a 150kW DC charger installed at Powerday’s Willesden Junction depot.
Each vehicle is expected to cover up to 30,000km a year and is backed by a five-year Volvo Gold Contract, including battery performance support beyond the standard vehicle warranty.
