The two new machines will be utilised at Thomas Betong's plant in Västerås and Thomas Cement's port, Stockholm Bulkhamn, in Stora Vika. These heavy-wheeled loaders are expected to reduce operational costs and the group's carbon footprint.
This strategic development initiative marks the company as the first concrete supplier in Sweden to adopt fully electric wheeled loaders. The aim is to build expertise in electrification and further strengthen Thomas Concrete Group's sustainability efforts and industry innovation.
"In 2021, we were the first in Sweden to begin using series-produced 100 per cent electric-powered concrete trucks. We're taking the next step by introducing fully electric wheel loaders in our commitment to lead in sustainability, innovation, and industry development. This is another milestone, and we are proud to be the first concrete supplier in Sweden to take this step," says Hans Karlander, CEO of Thomas Concrete Group.
The two 21-ton electric wheeled loaders, LiuGong 865E, operate entirely on electricity. Each is equipped with a 423 kWh battery, which can run for 12 hours for lighter applications and nine hours for heavier ones. The wheel loaders feature fast charging capability and are equipped with a CATL battery pack and control system, meeting the highest European standards. Additionally, the electric wheeled loaders are expected to reduce operational costs compared to diesel-fueled machines of the same type. Rental Group supplies the wheeled loaders, which will be leased for 12 months for evaluation purposes.
"This is truly inspiring as it gives us the opportunity to build knowledge and learn more about how fossil-free heavy construction equipment operates in everyday scenarios, both in a bulk port and at a concrete plant. These lessons will benefit our other subsidiaries in Europe and notably in the USA. By utilising electric wheel loaders, we continue to reduce our carbon footprint and lead the way towards a more sustainable construction sector," concludes Karlander.
