In a landmark moment for Western Australia’s transport industry, the state has received its first fully electric original equipment manufacturer (OEM) heavy-duty truck.
The Volvo FM Electric truck was delivered to CD Dodd, a leading company in mine refurbishment, rehabilitation, and recycling.
This delivery marks a significant step towards decarbonising Western Australia’s mining and transport sectors, utilising solutions tailored to the state’s infrastructure, roads, and industry needs.
The historic handover was officiated by Stephen Price MLA, Member for Forrestfield, and Max Winkless, an industry icon recognised as the “father” of Volvo Trucks in Australia.
Hon. Reece Whitby MLA, Western Australia’s Minister for Energy, Environment, and Climate Action, emphasised the importance of electric trucks in decarbonising the state’s roads, particularly for urban freight transport.
He acknowledged that while long-distance freight requires a mix of solutions, electric trucks can contribute to immediate decarbonisation efforts.
Martin Merrick, President of Volvo Group, highlighted the significance of this milestone for both Volvo Trucks and the Western Australian transport industry.
He noted that the sector currently accounts for 18 per cent of the state’s emissions, a figure that innovative companies like CD Dodd are helping to reduce.
Chris Dodd, CEO of CD Dodd, expressed enthusiasm about being Western Australia’s first Volvo heavy electric truck owner, stating that it aligns perfectly with their company values of safety, efficiency, and sustainability.
Volvo Group Australia has committed to manufacturing battery electric vehicles in its Queensland facility by 2027, building on its 50-year history of Australian manufacturing.
The Volvo FM Electric truck boasts impressive features:
- Zero tailpipe emissions
- Near-silent noise levels
- 300km range
- 50-tonne carrying capacity (GCW)
- Up to 490kW of power
This delivery represents a collaborative effort between industry, government, and stakeholders to reduce emissions and pave the way for a more sustainable transport future in Western Australia.
