London-based fine art logistics provider Gander & White has acquired its first electric truck – a refrigerated Volvo FL Electric 4×2 rigid – that will transport high-value goods, including paintings, sculptures and antiques, across the capital.
Supplied by Volvo Truck and Bus Centre South & East, the FL Electric was ordered following Gander & White’s positive experience with a similar demonstration model, which highlighted the operational and sustainability potential of switching to electric power.
Gander & White’s vehicle is equipped with three batteries, generating 280 kWh, while its powertrain features an electric motor driven by a two-speed transmission that produces a peak torque of 425 Nm.
Given its specialised workload, the truck is mounted with a Carrier Transicold Iceland 11 temperature-controlled unit.
The all-electric system ensures the often-delicate goods Gander & White transports are kept at a consistent temperature to prevent damage in transit.
Backed by a Volvo Gold Contract, covering all maintenance and repairs, and including proactive monitoring of batteries and associated components, the FL Electric is expected to work five days a week.
It also features safety-focused technologies, including Lane Keeping Support, Side Collision Avoidance Support, Driver Alert Support and Forward Collision Warning systems.
Gander & White operates a 16-strong commercial vehicle fleet in the UK, delivering nationwide to private collectors, antique dealers, fine art and contemporary galleries, interior designers, auction houses and museums.
Alexander Bradford, Global Business Development & Sustainability Manager, Gander & White, said, “Though early days, we’re confident in this technology and its potential to help us reduce our carbon footprint.
“We hope this will be just the first step towards transitioning our fleet from diesel power towards alternative fuels.”
