Volvo Trucks Malaysia To Focus On EV And Sustainable Transport Solutions

Volvo Trucks Malaysia is looking to focus on promoting ‘green’ / sustainable transport solutions, particularly electric vehicles (EV). As part of its sustainability strategy, Volvo Trucks will be introducing more ‘green’ models into the Malaysian market in view of the 2050 target for carbon neutrality.

The company is aware the move to ‘green’ logistics is a process, and it understands that the local logistics industry needs to gradually transition in this direction. As such, Volvo Trucks will first introduce Euro 5-standard prime mover models which meet the stringent international emission requirements by the middle of 2023. The Euro 5 trucks offer better fuel economy and lower emissions.

Recently, Volvo Trucks Malaysia joined the “Pioneer the Possible” platform organised by Business Sweden. This platform is designed to foster collaboration between Swedish companies and key decision-makers in Malaysia with a common goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and 2045. The effort is also in support of Malaysia’s ‘green’ transition efforts through low-carbon reforms in key sectors such as transport, production, energy, and the environment.

Volvo Trucks also inked a partnership with the Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation (MGTC) in 2022. The company will play a key role in advancing the promotion of ‘green’ logistics through EV adoption and providing hands-on training. The company is also forward to launch its first Electric Prime Mover in Malaysia by the 3rd quarter of 2023, which will pioneer the commercial vehicle sector’s journey into a more sustainable future.

In mid-2022, SWIFT Haulage Berhad signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Volvo Trucks to purchase the company’s electric trucks. The MoU also sets up the exploration of the potential establishment of a charging network, development of qualified human capital, and sharing of electro mobility technology in Malaysia. Volvo Trucks currently has the most complete line-up of electric trucks in the industry, with trucks available for city distribution and refuse handling, to urban construction transport and regional haulage. 

Besides EV adoption, Volvo Trucks is also driving conversations and action around road safety with the industry and government agencies. This includes a collaboration with PLUS Expressways Berhad to develop a heavy-duty truck safety programme, with the aim of equipping drivers with better safety knowledge and handling of heavy-duty vehicles. And also to the road users to have better understanding of a truck driver’s view when in the driver’s seat.

Further, Volvo Trucks Malaysia is continuing to invest in developing its talent and facilities as assets for a sustainable future such as installing solar panels at its Shah Alam and Kuantan dealerships. It had also recently relocated its Sibu branch to further tap into the economic potential of the business district.

In 2022, Volvo Trucks Malaysia registered an 8.5% growth in trucks delivered to customers, largely following the pent-up demand in the last couple of years. This performance echoes the truck manufacturer’s global performance which delivered an all-time high number of its trucks to customers while simultaneously increasing market share in 41 countries, including Malaysia. Locally, the company delivered 320 trucks to customers, compared to 295 units sold the previous year. The brand’s top performing portfolio by model for the year remains its popular FM440 6×2, FMX440 and FM370 prime mover models.

Leveraging an extensive network of 13 dealerships across Peninsula and East Malaysia, Volvo Trucks also registered a 12% growth in its aftermarket service.

“We grow with our customers at every stage of their business. This growth is attributed by Volvo Trucks Malaysia’s deep understanding of the commercial vehicle industry’s need for safety, reliability and efficiency. While we address current needs, we also believe in driving the future by being a partner to Malaysia and its efforts in accelerating the adoption of green technology and electric vehicles. The only way forward is leadership through collaboration, and Volvo Trucks Malaysia is proud to be a contributing member to the conversation,” said Volvo Trucks Malaysia Managing Director, Anthony O’Connell.

Volvo Trucks is also registered in the MyHijau directory, a reference for sourcing and purchasing green products and services in Malaysia.