Volvo Trucks North America is revolutionizing electric fleet management with the introduction of cutting-edge technology designed to seamlessly integrate Volvo VNR Electric Class 8 models into commercial operations. Two innovative tools, a sophisticated route planning application and advanced connected technology services, are engineered to unlock the full potential of the zero-emission Volvo VNR Electric trucks, maximizing their performance and efficiency. These advancements were unveiled at the recent ATA’s Technology & Maintenance Council’s (TMC) 2022 Annual Meeting & Transportation Technology Exhibition.
This announcement builds upon Volvo Trucks’ commitment to electric mobility, highlighted by the January 2022 enhancements to the Volvo VNR Electric series. These upgrades included a robust six-battery configuration boosting energy storage to an impressive 565 kWh, extending the operational range up to 275 miles. The next-generation Volvo VNR Electric, slated for production in Q2 2022, offers diverse configurations including 6×4 straight trucks and tractors, 6×2 tractors, 4×2 tractors, and single-axle straight trucks, catering to a wide array of transportation needs.
Introducing Volvo’s Electric Performance Generator (EPG) for Route Optimization
To empower fleet managers in selecting the ideal Volvo VNR Electric setup for their specific local and regional routes, Volvo Trucks has developed the Electric Performance Generator (EPG). This Route Plan Tool For Cars is seamlessly integrated as an extension of Volvo’s existing connectivity platform. The EPG application is a powerful simulator, allowing users to model real-world routes for their Volvo VNR Electric trucks. It intelligently considers crucial variables such as vehicle configuration, battery capacity, terrain, ambient temperature, and intricate route details like traffic patterns. By analyzing estimated energy consumption, the EPG tool proactively identifies if opportunity charging would be beneficial or necessary. This foresight enables fleet managers to dynamically adjust routes or strategically plan charging stops, ensuring operational efficiency.
Fleet operators eager to leverage the EPG tool for route evaluation can collaborate with certified Volvo Trucks EV dealerships. Currently available in key US markets like California, New York, and Virginia, and in Quebec, Canada, Volvo Trucks is rapidly expanding its certified EV dealership network throughout 2022. Existing Volvo VNR Electric customers gain access to the EPG tool through Volvo Trucks’ connectivity platform, integrating seamlessly with Remote Diagnostics and battery health monitoring services. This integration facilitates optimized daily operations and proactive planning for their electric fleets.
Geotab Connected Technology: Real-Time Fleet Visibility
Volvo Trucks is also incorporating advanced connected technology solutions from Geotab, a leading telematics provider. This integration provides fleet managers with comprehensive, real-time visibility into the performance of their Volvo VNR Electric fleet. Through cloud integration, data from each truck is transmitted to the MyGeotab platform via the factory-installed Volvo Telematics Gateway in every Volvo VNR Electric. Fleet managers can access this wealth of data through an intuitive online portal, enabling them to:
- Track the real-time location of their Volvo VNR Electric fleet on a map, with indicators for driving or parked status within geofenced areas.
- Receive automated notifications for truck departures and arrivals, including odometer readings and state of charge.
- Configure alerts for critical state-of-charge levels, providing timely warnings for low battery.
- Monitor real-time charging status, including connection to charger, active charging, charging completion, or interruptions.
- Generate detailed energy consumption reports and insightful measurement charts.
According to Andy Brown, product marketing manager at Volvo Trucks North America, “Introducing battery-electric trucks requires a shift in operational thinking for fleet managers and drivers, particularly regarding range and fueling compared to diesel fleets. These innovative tools are designed to guide fleet managers in effectively integrating Volvo VNR Electrics into their current operations and to support the strategic growth of their electric fleets.”
These transformative technology solutions will be standard features in the Volvo Gold Contract for the Volvo VNR Electric model, rolling out in 2022. The Volvo Gold Contract delivers a comprehensive, worry-free ownership experience for electric vehicles. It includes the full Uptime Services bundle for the Volvo VNR Electric, combining Volvo Trucks’ proactive battery monitoring with trusted Remote Diagnostics, Volvo Action Service, and ASIST, all accessible through the Volvo Trucks 24/7 Uptime Center.
For deeper insights into Volvo Trucks North America and the Volvo VNR Electric, please visit the company website.
