World’s leading steel company electrifies heavy-duty truck fleet for product transport

SSAB Europe and VR Transpoint, the logistics arm of VR, have announced a collaborative initiative to electrify heavy-duty industrial transportation in Finland. Under this partnership, SSAB Europe will invest in heavy-duty vehicle charging infrastructure at the Hämeenlinna Works, while VR will procure fully electric trucks for SSAB Europe’s deliveries. These trucks, expected to be among the largest for regular customer deliveries in Finland, represent a significant advancement towards sustainable logistics solutions.

This joint effort by SSAB Europe and VR Transpoint showcases a proactive approach to planning and implementing logistics chains aimed at reducing carbon dioxide emissions. VR’s investment will involve acquiring two fully electric semi-trailer combinations, referred to as “e-mammoths,” to facilitate steel deliveries to SSAB’s customers near the Hämeenlinna Works. Notably, these electric trucks not only embody cutting-edge technology but also contribute to noise reduction through the silent operation of electric motors. Operations for these trucks are slated to commence towards the end of the year.

The primary objective of this project is to electrify heavy transports, aligning with SSAB Europe’s commitment to significantly reduce carbon dioxide emissions from its operations by 2030. By extending the transportation radius to over 100 kilometers from the Hämeenlinna Works, SSAB aims to improve accessibility for its customers while promoting sustainable practices.

Anders Ek, Site Manager at SSAB Hämeenlinna, underscores the project’s environmental significance, stating, “This initiative supports our goal of largely eliminating carbon dioxide emissions from our operations by 2030. Our customers share our commitment to reducing carbon dioxide emissions, and we are dedicated to facilitating the electrification of product transport by providing charging infrastructure, which is currently lacking for heavy-duty vehicles.”

Tommi Välimäki, Head of VR Transpoint road logistics, emphasizes the importance of reducing emissions in road transport and highlights tailored logistics solutions as integral to this effort. He notes, “Investing in a new environmentally friendly fleet will help us improve transport and energy efficiency, and reduce traffic emissions.”

In 2023, both companies entered into new agreements for the transportation of raw materials and products by rail and road, amounting to almost two million tonnes annually. This collaboration has not only optimized transport chains but also led to significant reductions in emissions. Previous joint endeavors include the development of the largest Finnish freight train and the introduction of mammoth trucks, contributing to efficiency, safety, and environmental benefits on Finnish roads.

The Finnish Transport and Communications Agency Traficom has extended support for VR and SSAB’s joint project, aimed at enabling emission-free heavy industrial transports. Data collected from this initiative will be utilized in the Six Hove project, led by Tampere University and VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, to evaluate the feasibility of electrifying heavy transport and further reducing emissions.

Heavy-duty electric trucks offer several environmental benefits compared to their conventional diesel counterparts:

1. Zero Emissions: Electric trucks produce zero tailpipe emissions, reducing harmful pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), and greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide (CO2). This significantly improves local air quality and helps combat climate change.
2. Reduced Noise Pollution: Electric trucks operate quietly compared to diesel trucks, reducing noise pollution in urban areas and residential neighborhoods. This is particularly beneficial for nighttime deliveries and areas sensitive to noise disturbances.
3. Energy Efficiency: Electric trucks are more energy-efficient than diesel trucks. They convert a higher percentage of energy from the grid into usable power for propulsion, resulting in lower energy consumption per mile traveled.
4. Renewable Energy Integration: Electric trucks can be powered by renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, or hydroelectric power. By utilizing clean energy sources for charging, electric trucks further reduce their carbon footprint and dependence on fossil fuels.
5. Regenerative Braking: Electric trucks often feature regenerative braking systems that capture energy during braking and deceleration, converting it back into usable electricity. This regenerative braking technology increases overall energy efficiency and reduces wear on traditional braking components.
6. Long-Term Cost Savings: Although electric trucks may have higher upfront costs compared to diesel trucks, they typically have lower operating and maintenance costs over their lifespan. Savings result from reduced fuel expenses, fewer moving parts requiring maintenance, and potential incentives or subsidies for electric vehicle adoption.
7. Support for Renewable Grid Integration: Electric trucks serve as a flexible load for the electric grid, allowing for better integration of renewable energy sources. By charging during off-peak hours or when renewable energy generation is high, electric trucks can help balance grid demand and support the transition to a cleaner energy system.

Overall, heavy-duty electric trucks play a crucial role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving air quality, and promoting sustainable transportation solutions for a cleaner and healthier environment.