Swedish EV startup Volta Trucks announced plans to penetrate the US market in 2023 with its zero-emissions medium-duty trucks Volta Zero.
The automaker will first launch a pilot program for Class-6 and Class-7 rigs by the end of this year. Meanwhile, the US-spec production units will follow in 2024.
Volvo Trucks to debut its Class-7 Zero at 2023 ACT Expo
Volvo Trucks is expected to launch its Class-7 Zero design-verification prototype at the upcoming Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo in Anaheim, California.
“I’m delighted to be able to show the all-electric Volta Zero in the important US market at ACT Expo in California.
We’re building on the key learnings from our European launch, where we’ve developed at speed and scale, with deep understanding of our customers’ needs, to accelerate the transition to electric commercial vehicles and help decarbonize city centers.”
Essa Al-Saleh, CEO of Volta Trucks
Apparently, the event will occur from May 1 to 4, 2023.
About Volta Zero
For context, the European 16-ton rigs are comparable to the Class-6 and Class-7 vehicles.
Volvo’s Class-7 Zero will be offered with either an ambient or a refrigerated cargo compartment.
Furthermore, the automaker’s e-Axle will propel the vehicle. The Accelera-made technology integrates the electric motor, transmission, and axle into one single unit.
On the other hand, California-based Proterra will supply the vehicle’s high-voltage batteries. Volta Trucks will fit the battery in the truck’s chassis railings, as it believes it is the safest option.
However, the trucks would not offer a remarkable driving range as they are meant for urban logistics. Nonetheless, they will still be competitive enough for city deliveries.
Specifically, the company claims that the Class-6 and -7 trucks will offer a range of 95-125 miles (150-200 kilometers), depending on the battery configuration.
After the debut of its biggest vehicles, Volta also aims to launch another two models in North America.
“The US faces the same safety and sustainability issues we are addressing in Europe and is a significant market opportunity for us. This marks the start of our journey in the US, and we are excited to bring road-certified vehicles for US customers to evaluate later this year.”
Essa Al-Saleh, CEO of Volta Trucks