VOLVO Trucks Malaysia will launch the first electric prime mover in Malaysia by the third quarter of this year (3Q23).

In support of the move to green logistics, it will also introduce the Volvo Euro 5 Prime Mover which meets the stringent international emission requirements, offers better fuel economy and a cleaner fleet by the middle of this year.

Volvo Trucks MD Anthony O’Connell said this will pioneer the commercial vehicle sector’s journey into a sustainable future.

“The main mission is to continue introducing sustainable trucks in the Malaysian market while helping the nation achieve carbon neutrality by 2050,” he said at a media briefing at Volvo Trucks Malaysia Sdn Bhd at Port Klang yesterday.

Volvo Trucks is currently strengthening its electronic vehicle (EV) trucks ecosystem that adopts green technology which intends to support Malaysia’s green transition efforts through low-carbon reforms in key sectors such as transport, production, energy and the environment.

While noting that Malaysia has a vast opportunity and resources to start, O’Connell noted that Volvo Truck is leveraging its network of 13 dealerships across Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia.

It recently relocated its Sibu branch which taps into the economic potential of the business district and upcoming installation of solar panels at its Shah Alam and Kuantan dealership.

O’Connell said the supply chain for commercial vehicles has been challenging in the past years but now is slowly getting back to normal and regaining its momentum. 

Capping a successful year for its commercial vehicle segment in 2022, he added that Volvo Trucks recorded an 8.5% volume growth with 320 units sold compared to 295 units the previous year.

This is reflective of the global manufacturer performance and is also supported by the pent-up demand post-pandemic period.

To accelerate the adoption of commercial EVs in the ecosystem, Volvo Truck is collaborating with PLUS Expressways Bhd to develop a heavy-duty truck safety programme, Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corp (MGTC) to promote green logistic through EV adoption as well as Swift Haulage Bhd to explore the potential charging network.

Moving forward, it is also looking forward to developing its talent and facilities in line with the market needs.

Source: The Malaysian Reserve