That's approximately 96 kilometers more than the standard version of the same truck, all thanks to advancements in electric motor technology, a higher-capacity battery, and aerodynamic improvements.
The extended-range Volvo FH Aero Electric is powered by a newly designed electric rear axle that integrates two electric motors, all necessary power electronics, a 6-speed transmission, and a traditional 13-ton load-bearing axle. Depending on the configuration, the output power is either 571 hp (420 kW) or 626 hp (460 kW).
Thanks to the smaller rear electric axle, Volvo Trucks has made room for a larger high-voltage battery. For the extended-range FH Electric Aero model, customers can order six or eight individual "L"-shaped battery packs, with a maximum usable capacity of 725 kWh.
For comparison, the standard FH Aero Electric truck comes with a capacity of up to 540 kWh, allowing it to travel up to 600 km on a single charge. Its powertrain is also different, featuring two electric motors and an eight-speed powershift transmission. Both versions are available with an electric power take-off (ePTO), which can transfer energy from the battery to third-party systems such as refrigeration units or hydraulic pumps.
The new large truck with a 700-kilometer range is equipped with an MCS charging connector, enabling it to accept up to 700 kW of power from a sufficiently powerful charger. When connected to a 1 MW DC fast charger, the extended-range Volvo FH Aero can charge its batteries from 20 to 80 percent capacity in about 50 minutes, while a 350 kW CCS fast charger will charge the batteries in about 85 minutes.
According to the Swedish truck manufacturer Volvo Trucks, the new extended-range model has a gross combination weight (GCW) of up to 48 tons, with a payload capacity of up to 28 tons. A single 6x2 configuration with a lightweight auxiliary (tag) axle is available, and cabin options include Globetrotter and Globetrotter XL versions.
All of this is good news if the only requirement is long-distance transport, but that is rarely the case in the trucking industry. However, Volvo Trucks is well aware of this, which is why the standard Volvo FH Aero Electric is significantly more adaptable. Although its driving range is shorter, it offers a gross combination weight of up to 65 tons, as well as more axle configurations with air suspension, ranging from 4x2 to 8x4.
