DFDS and Hypnos Beds rest easy with two new Volvo

FM electrics

Hypnos Beds has taken a significant step

toward decarbonising its commercial vehicle fleet by replacing two existing

diesel trucks with new Volvo FM Electrics, introduced via its transport and

logistics partner DFDS.

Supplied by Jose Lavarello, Key Account

Manager for Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland, the new additions consist of a 4x2

curtainside rigid and a 4x2 tractor unit. They will deliver the business’ range

of luxury mattresses and bed furniture to retail outlets, hotels and

distribution centres in London and Milton Keynes respectively. 

James Ferguson, Regional Operations

Manager, DFDS, says: “Introducing these two electric trucks into the Hypnos

Beds fleet is an important step in accelerating its ambitious sustainability

goals, as well as enhancing the efficiency of its operations. 

“Thanks to Volvo’s support – which included

installing the necessary charging infrastructure and delivering driver training

– we are fully prepared to meet the increasing demand for low-emission road

transport solutions, with this partnership reinforcing our shared commitment to

providing innovative logistics services and intensifying our decarbonisation

efforts.” 

The new rigid is equipped with five

batteries, while the FM Electric tractor unit boasts the maximum of six. Both

trucks feature three electrical motors, generating an output of 666 hp and

2,400 Nm of continuous torque, paired with standard I-Shift gearboxes to

deliver a smooth and ultra-quiet in-cab driving experience. 

DFDS – which was appointed Hypnos Beds’

transport and logistics partner in 2024 – has opted for similar internal

specifications on each vehicle. Both include creature comforts such as a heated

and suspended driver’s seat, electrically controlled cab climate control, Volvo

Dynamic Steering, an adjustable steering wheel with neck tilt, and full air

suspension. 

Visibility is increased on each FM Electric

thanks to rain-sensing windscreen wipers, LED headlamps which

automatically adjust according to ambient light conditions, V-Shaped daytime

running lights, and electrically heated and operated rear view mirrors. These

features grant the driver a crystal-clear view of their surroundings whatever

the weather. 

The trucks have also been fitted with

Volvo’s new Camera Monitoring System (CMS). Replacing traditional exterior

mirrors, CMS increases the driver’s field of view and also performs strongly in

rainy and dark conditions, direct sunlight and even when driving in

tunnels. 

To improve safety, the trucks also include

Forward Collision Warning with Advanced Emergency Braking, Side Collision

Avoidance Support, Lane Departure Warning and Driver Alert Support systems.

Peter Keen, Chairman, Hypnos Beds, says:

“By integrating these FM Electrics into our logistics operations, we are taking

tangible action to ensure that our products are delivered with minimal impact

on the planet. Our partnership with DFDS and Volvo Trucks reflects our

continued commitment to sustainability, ensuring that our goods reach customers

more efficiently and responsibly.” 

The trucks will operate from Hypnos Beds’

Princes Risborough factory, where two Volvo-supplied 43kW AC chargers have been

installed to allow for recharging overnight. They will be on the road five days

a week. 

Founded in 1904, family-run Hypnos Beds

services include the design, manufacture, delivery and installation of

bespoke-built beds. Its new FM Electrics contribute to the business’ existing

green credentials, and its ambition to become the first carbon-neutral bedmaker

in the world.

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