The AA has launched three new all-electric recovery vehicles that will soon provide roadside assistance to its customers and drivers across the United Kingdom. Due to the complex vehicle requirements, The AA is taking a ‘test and scale’ approach to fleet decarbonization with structured tests of alternative fuel vehicles in real-life settings.
The EVs were revealed at a dedicated Fleet Decarbonization event at the AA’s Oldbury Operations Centre, where it unveiled further additions to its roadside assistance and recovery fleet. The new EVs at the center of this announcement include an all-electric Volvo FE Slidebed, an Iveco eDaily Powerload, and an Iveco eDaily crew van equipped with a heavy-duty Compact Recovery Trailer (CRT). Together, The AA will leverage these vehicles to accelerate the achievement of its 2035 net zero target.
The electric Volvo FE 19T represents the latest step in a growing partnership between The AA and the Swedish OEM. Equipped with a Boniface VLA (very low angle) slidebed, it can carry 6000 kg (13,227 lb) on its recovery bed and up to 2000 kg (4409 lb) on its second car lift. The vehicle also offers a range of 170 miles (273 km) which, when depleted, can be replenished in 2.25 hours with a 150-kWh rapid charger. The AA expects to use the two-seater truck to recover vehicles in and around low-emissions zones, such as London and Birmingham.
The Iveco eDaily Powerload features a remote loading system designed to alleviate manual handling for recovery operatives by deploying the loading ramps remotely. This electric concept vehicle has a minimum range of 100 miles (160 km), which The AA says is adequate to cover its intended low-emission zone application. Its 3000 kg (6613 lb) payload allows it to carry a broad range of vehicles, including SUVs, while an 80-kWh rapid charger is expected to recharge the battery from low to full in less than an hour (0.8 hours).
Based on an Iveco eDaily crew van, which has been converted to allow proper installation of the AA’s CRT unit, the eDaily CRT van features a twin battery set-up with an increased estimated range of 160 miles (257 km) with an 0.8-hour recharge time (when using an 80 kWh charger). Inside, the van offers a custom-made table complete with cup holders and built-in USB charge points. The conversion also facilitates a new roller shutter door, allowing recovery operators to deploy the CRT safely. The heavy-duty CRT itself, specially adapted by TowPro Ltd, can carry casualty vehicles of up to 3,250 kg (7,165 lb) and recover motorcycles, EVs, and 4x4s (when utilizing AA Freewheeling Hubs).
