The Queensland Government has announced that two new prime movers are set to be delivered to Queensland Fire and Emergency Services as part of an Australian first trial.
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The Volvo trucks – one running on Hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) and the other electric – will support operational logistics at Caloundra and Townsville. According to Minister for Energy and Clean Economy Jobs, Mick de Brenni, it is “critical” that all facets of Government work together to decarbonise their operations – especially transport, who produces more than 15 per cent of Queensland’s emissions.
“We’re decarbonising the heavy transport sector while continuing to deliver the high quality, critical frontline services Queenslanders rightly expect,” said de Brenni.
“Today’s announcement not only benefits the hardworking women and men of Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, but so too does it support local manufacturing and clean economy jobs.
“By partnering with Volvo to deliver this nation-leading trial, the Miles Government is locking in a future made in Queensland, for Queenslanders.”
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Built at the Volvo factory in Wacol, Brisbane, the HVO-powered truck comes with the latest 13-litre Euro 6 technology, allowing it to run on either the alternative fuel or regular diesel.
During the trial, the prime mover – to be based in Townsville – will be operated solely on HVO to test its ability to survive the rigors of the job, covering significant distances across North Queensland on the alternative fuel source.
The electric-powered truck – the first Volvo FMX electric prime mover ordered in Australia – will be based at Caloundra and will be used for logistics delivery runs as part of its trial.
QFES Fleet has undertaken significant research into alternative technologies and reduced carbon fuel options to decarbonise the heavy vehicle fleet and is working towards meeting Queensland Government emissions targets.
An evaluation trial will be undertaken during the first 12 months of operational service with data collated via on-board vehicle information management systems and field evaluations from QFES personnel, with the support of Volvo.