Falkenklev Logistik AB, a Swedish logistics company, is transitioning its urban operations in Malmö to electric with the addition of six new FUSO eCanter 9C18e light trucks. This expansion of Falkenklev’s electric vehicle fleet will be dedicated to DHL transport assignments in the Skåne region, primarily within Malmö. The bright yellow, branded electric trucks will help fulfill Falkenklev’s commitment to more sustainable urban logistics.
Efficient and Compact Urban Solution
The newly acquired eCanter trucks, weighing 8.55 tonnes and boasting a 4,750 mm wheelbase, can accommodate a maximum body length of 7.2 meters, providing up to 15 pallet spaces. “These vehicles bridge the gap between vans and heavy-duty delivery trucks, perfectly meeting our needs for electrifying daily DHL deliveries in central Malmö,” says Victor Falkenklev, CEO of Falkenklev Logistik AB. Confident in their suitability, Falkenklev ordered the fleet without test drives, noting that their design is ideal for short urban routes, typically around 20 kilometers with numerous stops. The eCanter’s M-size battery pack offers a 140-kilometer range, ensuring efficiency in stop-and-go traffic, which is less suitable for diesel engines.
Customization for Optimal Performance
Veho Bil Sverige AB, the general importer for FUSO in Sweden, provided several custom modifications to enhance the trucks’ performance and driver comfort. These adjustments included an extra step at the cabin entrance to mimic the entry experience of larger trucks, a roof spoiler, and side wind deflectors for better aerodynamics. Marcus Sjöberg, Veho’s sales representative in Malmö, played a key role in preparing the vehicles and organized a comprehensive driver training program for Falkenklev’s team.
Leading the Transport Industry’s Green Transformation
Victor Falkenklev’s sustainability vision extends beyond adopting electric trucks. “I’ve been focused on making our business sustainable, driven by the desire for a greener future for my children and myself,” he says. The family-run business, established in 1957, has already made significant strides, such as building a 15,000-square-meter solar park in Perstorp in 2022. The facility produces over one million kilowatt hours annually and includes a two-megawatt battery storage system to stabilize the grid. Through certificate trading, the solar energy is integrated into Falkenklev’s operations, supporting the electric fleet.
Beyond deploying electric vehicles, Falkenklev has built Sweden’s largest charging station for heavy-duty vehicles, located opposite its Malmö Arlöv site. With 22 CCS2 charging points delivering up to 350 kW, the station was initially intended for Falkenklev’s fleet but has since evolved into a public charging park, contributing to local infrastructure and industry. Victor, who now also runs the charging infrastructure company Rifil Laddpark, envisions more charging parks across Skåne.
A Vision for a Self-Sustaining Future
Victor’s ambitions include powering the entire company with renewable energy, equipping every viable surface with solar panels, and making the business self-sufficient within a year. He also sees potential revenue from energy services, such as using truck batteries to stabilize the grid through bidirectional charging. “We could make more money with diesel, but I’m committed to making the transport industry sustainable. Our progress shows it’s possible,” Victor emphasizes.
FUSO eCanter Gains Momentum in Sweden
FUSO’s entry into the Swedish market looks promising. Krister Thulin, FUSO brand manager at Veho Import AB, believes the eCanter’s versatile and reliable design will win over local customers. “We’re showcasing the eCanter at trade fairs across Sweden this year, and interest is already growing,” Thulin notes. Marcus Sjöberg recounts how another customer ordered an eCanter after seeing one prepared for Falkenklev. “The FUSO eCanter has clearly made an impression in Sweden,” he adds.
With its electric fleet expansion and innovative infrastructure solutions, Falkenklev Logistik is setting a new benchmark for sustainable urban logistics in Sweden.