Volvo Trucks has released more details on its new FH Aero Electric, its most ambitious battery-electric truck yet. The long-distance hauler will debut with an extended driving range, fast-charging capabilities, and payload capacity on par with diesel-powered models. But some patience is required, as the electric flagship model is slated to hit the market in the second quarter of 2026, a delay of half a year.
The flagship truck first appeared at the latest edition of the IAA Transporation fair in Hannover under the promise that the official release was planned for this year. That plan has been pushed back by six months, pointing to a bump in the initial timeline. To compensate, Volvo Trucks has already begun revealing details and images of the FH Aero Electric. Logistics and transportation companies, from their side, can pre-order via letters of intent, signaling the company’s confidence in strong early demand.
New axle, more space
Built specifically for long-haul routes—one of the most carbon-intensive segments in freight transport—the new model addresses the primary challenge of battery range without sacrificing operational efficiency. As promised by Volvo at the IAA, the FH Aero Electric will deliver up to 600 kilometers of electric range on a single charge, made possible by a newly engineered e-axle that consolidates the drivetrain at the rear and frees up space for more batteries.
This space optimization allows the truck to accommodate eight battery packs with a total installed capacity of 780 kWh. For the European market, that’s a record, but on a global scale, the FH Aero Electric is still beaten by the Tesla Semitruck, which has an estimated capacity between 900 and 1,000 kWh and a driving range of up to 800 kilometers. While Volvo has not disclosed usable capacity, the figure marks a significant increase over the 540 kWh maximum found in the current FH Electric.
Charging meets resting period
Charging time is equally noteworthy. Thanks to integration with the new Megawatt Charging System (MCS), the FH Aero Electric can be charged from 20% to 80% in approximately 40 minutes. That fits neatly within the mandated rest period for drivers in the EU, allowing for real-world productivity without range anxiety.
Payload, often a sticking point in electric trucking, has been addressed with a 6×2 axle configuration that includes an additional tag axle. This setup allows the FH Aero Electric to handle a gross combination weight of up to 48 tonnes while maintaining a payload capacity comparable to diesel trucks. The design also improves weight distribution, an essential factor given the heft of additional batteries and heavy trailers.
Volvo Trucks President Roger Alm calls the new model a “breakthrough in zero-emission transport,” citing both the operational range and fast-charging as critical advancements. “Transport companies can now run truly long distances without compromising productivity,” Alm said. “This is not just a win for our customers—it’s a win for the environment.”
Leader in electrification
The FH Aero Electric expands Volvo’s electric portfolio, which already includes eight models covering urban, regional, and construction segments. Since launching its electric truck program in 2019, the company has delivered over 4,900 units to customers in 49 countries. With the addition of a long-haul solution, Volvo aims to solidify its position as a leader in commercial vehicle electrification.
The FH Aero Electric will be available with both the newly designed aerodynamic cab and a standard cab option. Its streamlined exterior, camera-based mirror system, and optimized fairings signal not only technological innovation but also a visual shift toward the future of freight transport – though not as radical as a Tesla Semitruck.
