New low entry trucks head for London

The zero tailpipe-emission battery electric trucks are purpose-built for city operations, combining near-silent running with excellent visibility for the driver, thanks to a five-star Direct Vision Standard rating.

Ringway has selected two of the new models to replace older diesel trucks in its fleet of more than 2,000 commercial vehicles, as part of its commitment to minimising environmental impact. Together, they will improve sustainability, bolster safety and ensure Ringway continues to gain vital knowledge operating electric trucks in a real-world fleet environment.

The delivery includes a Volvo FM Low Entry 8x2 Tridem, riding on full air suspension and with Thompsons tipper-grab bodywork, to support Transport for London’s (TFL’s) Works for London highways maintenance operations.

It is joined by an FM Low Entry 4x2 featuring a Thompsons dropside body, also for operation on the TfL contract. It will be used to undertake street lighting operations across the capital. Columns will be removed and lifted into position using a Palfinger crane mounted at the front of the load bed. The bespoke bodywork features rear-stepped entry and the ability to load up to six lighting columns over the cab roof – the same number as the diesel truck it replaces.

For the 4x2 truck, a typical eight-hour shift will see it deliver to numerous sites across London, with the crane in operation at each location for up to 30 minutes. It will be crewed by a two-person team, with the FM Low Entry’s flexible interior spec’d in the traditional driver plus passenger seat layout.