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Volvo Introduces Electric PTO for VNR Electric
California Department of Transportation Set to Be Among First Customers
Key Takeaways:
- Volvo Trucks North America introduced a mechanical electric power takeoff for the VNR Electric at the Advanced Clean Transportation Expo on May 4.
- The ePTO provides 69.5 kilowatts of continuous power and allows equipment operation without a diesel engine.
- California Department of Transportation will deploy one of the first VNR Electric trucks equipped with the new system.
LAS VEGAS — Volvo Trucks North America is introducing mechanical electric power takeoff for the VNR Electric tractor.
The ePTO inverts traction battery DC voltage to three-phase AC voltage to power an electric motor capable of producing 69.5 kilowatts of continuous power, the Volvo Group division announced May 4 at the 2026 Advanced Clean Transportation Expo.
Greensboro, N.C.-based VTNA said the ePTO would allow the battery-electric regional-haul tractor to power equipment using its own batteries without a diesel engine.
VTNA expects the enhancement to encourage greater interest in the VNR Electric from construction, waste collection, distribution and other vocational fleets.
Peers of VTNA within the Volvo Group previously adopted the technology in Europe, the company said. Volvo Group’s European brands are Volvo and Renault.
California Department of Transportation will be among the first customers in North America, deploying a VNR Electric straight truck configured as a multipurpose municipal vehicle. The truck features a 15-foot cargo body that can function as a flatbed with a liftgate or be used as a dump truck with a hydraulic lift.
The VNR Electric was introduced in the U.S. and Canada in 2020, with series production beginning the same year.
Currently, more than 750 VNR Electrics are on the road in the United States and Canada.
VTNA is working toward introducing a battery-electric version of its VNL tractor, with orders starting later in 2026.
