Western Australia has received the state’s first fully electric original equipment manufacturer (OEM) heavy duty truck – a Volvo FM Electric truck – delivered to CD Dodd, a leader in mine refurbishment, rehabilitation, and recycling. The delivery marks a significant milestone in Western Australia, amid growing momentum to decarbonise the mining and transport sectors using solutions that are suitable for Western Australia’s infrastructure, roads, and industry.
In a historic moment, the Member for Forrestfield, Stephen Price MLA, and Max Winkless, industry icon and recognised as the “father” of Volvo Trucks in Australia, officially handed over the vehicle.
WA’s Minister for Energy, Environment, and Climate Action, Hon. Reece Whitby MLA, said, “Electric trucks will be fundamental in our efforts to decarbonise Western Australian roads, especially for transporting freight in and around urban areas. As many of our freight trucks cover long distances, decarbonising our roads requires a blend of solutions, but electric trucks are available today, and for the right jobs, they can start helping us decarbonise now.”
“This is a significant milestone for Volvo Trucks and the transport industry in Western Australia. The sector currently contributes 18% of the state’s emissions, a figure that innovators, like CD Dodd, are going to help reduce by leading the way in adopting electric vehicles,” said Martin Merrick, President of Volvo Group.
Chris Dodd, CEO of CD Dodd said, “We didn’t set out to be Western Australia’s first Volvo heavy electric truck owner, but it aligns perfectly with our company values. We champion technologies that enhance safety, efficiency, and sustainability. The Volvo FM Electric will be a vital part of our operations, and our drivers can’t wait to get behind the wheel.”
Mr Merrick added, “Next year will mark 60 years since Max Winkless introduced the first Volvo to Australia after working with Volvo in Sweden to create a model suitable for Australian roads. Today we see one pioneer passing the baton to another.”
Earlier in 2024, Volvo Group Australia committed to manufacturing battery electric vehicles in its Queensland facility, building on its 50-year history of Australian manufacturing. “Our commitment to local manufacturing of electric vehicles in Wacol by as early as 2027 means that soon trucks like this Volvo FM Electric, will be made right here in Australia,” Martin Merrick added.
“No one can get to zero emissions alone. It’s a shared responsibility among industry, government, and stakeholders to work together towards reducing emissions, and that’s what we see here today.” Merrick said.
The Volvo FM Electric truck is a flexible and agile heavy-duty truck with zero tailpipe emissions and near silent noise levels. It has a 300km range, can carry 50 tonnes (GCW) and has up to 490Kw of power.
