Johan Mörck, business development manager at Volva Penta, explained the tractor began its life powered by diesel. It was then was converted to diesel hybrid in 2015 before becoming fully electric this year, using electromobility technology from Volvo’s bus and truck applications.
The drivelines comprises two 49KwH battery packs powering 2 x 105kW drive motors and a two-stage transmission initially developed for Volvo buses. Different sized batteries can also be used.
Short operating cycles
Speaking about the operational capabilities of the tractor, Mr Mörck said: “You can use it for three to four hours and then you charge it for less than an hour via rapid charging or overnight charging takes around 10 hours and uses less power.”
Initial testing has already taken place at the Port of Gothenburg, with further testing to take place at the port this year.
Mr Mörck said the biggest electrification challenges include cost and charging infrastructure, but added that ports and terminals are on track to increasing use of electric machinery.
Earlier this year it was announced that Volvo Penta will develop the electric driveline in Austrian manufacturer Rosenbauer’s first industrialised electric fire truck. This followed the announcement that Volvo Penta is providing the propulsion system to Gothenburg’s 100% electric ferry.
Volvo Penta also highlighted its Stage V diesel engine range at TOC Europe.
