Volvo Penta Powers Ahead with Modular BESS

At ACT Expo 2025, Volvo Penta showcased how it’s advancing industrial electrification with its modular BESS electrification system—a key component in transforming everything from fire trucks to terminal tractors. By leveraging proven Volvo Group components and tailoring them with in-house R&D, Volvo Penta is offering scalable, rugged solutions that meet the demands of real-world applications across multiple sectors.

Proven Volvo DNA in a Flexible Form

Volvo Penta serves as the component supplier arm within the broader Volvo Group. Known for adapting powertrain components from Volvo trucks, buses, and construction equipment, the division has shifted its focus toward electrified drivetrains. Rather than reinventing the wheel, Volvo Penta takes core, validated technologies and re-engineers them for OEM-specific applications.

One such component is the electric driveline system built from a Volvo electric truck gearbox, battery pack, and motor—all adapted for industrial use. This plug-and-play solution comes complete with high-voltage cables, cooling systems, and thermal management, forming a ready-to-deploy powertrain for vehicles such as terminal tractors and fire trucks.

“We’re not just supplying parts—we’re providing complete drivelines,” said Darren Tasker, VP of Industrial Sales and Support at Volvo Penta North America. The division’s goal is to make electrification as turnkey as diesel once was.

Electric Driveline Details

For engineers and EV professionals, the specifics matter. Volvo Penta’s electric drivelines include:

• Lithium-ion NMC chemistry
• Cylindrical cells
• Integrated thermal management systems
• Rapid charging capability (45 minutes full charge)

These power units deliver smooth, quiet, and highly controllable torque. That translates to tangible benefits in the field, especially for vehicles like terminal tractors, which operate in stop-and-go environments.

Drivers quickly notice the advantages. Regenerative braking not only improves energy efficiency but also reduces brake wear—cutting down on maintenance. Features like instant torque delivery and electronically-controlled fifth-wheel lifts enhance usability.

Application Successes: Terminal Tractors, Fire Trucks, Excavators

Volvo Penta’s electrification journey is already well underway across multiple real-world applications. Examples include:

• Rosenbauer fire trucks using Volvo’s electric drivetrain
• Gradall electric excavators
• TICO terminal tractors

These platforms benefit from repeatable routes, predictable charging infrastructure, and the modular nature of Volvo Penta’s solutions.

Terminal tractors, for instance, receive a full charge in just 45 minutes—allowing top-ups during breaks. This makes EV adoption highly practical in ports, distribution centers, and similar operations with controlled duty cycles.

Inside the BESS: Battery Energy Storage Subsystem

Beyond vehicles, Volvo Penta is also electrifying stationary infrastructure with its Battery Energy Storage Subsystem (BESS)—nicknamed “BEST.” Designed in collaboration with UIG, the modular BESS features:

• Six 90 kWh batteries per unit (totaling 540 kWh)
• Common thermal management with mobile solutions
• Scalable architecture—link multiple units to reach megawatt capacities
• Rapid energy discharge for remote or high-demand scenarios

Applications include:

• Off-grid construction charging
• Emergency facility backup
• Grid balancing for distributed energy
• Remote site operations (e.g., mining)

This modularity means customers can upgrade battery modules independently or multiply the entire BESS stack to meet higher energy demands. The platform supports Volvo Penta’s vision for decentralized electrification—enabling industrial customers to bridge the gap until permanent infrastructure arrives.

Fourth-Generation Batteries and Second-Gen BESS

Volvo Penta has advanced to its fourth-generation battery technology, now featured in its second-generation BESS. That evolution reflects the company’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve in a rapidly-changing landscape. The transition from earlier 66 kWh modules to newer 90 kWh packs demonstrates continuous improvement in both energy density and packaging efficiency.

And thanks to cross-platform component use, the same batteries found in electric construction equipment can power stationary energy storage systems. This standardization drives down cost, simplifies logistics, and improves serviceability.

Internal Combustion Still in Play—But Cleaner

Despite the EV focus, Volvo Penta hasn’t abandoned internal combustion. Instead, the team is enhancing sustainability across the board. All current Volvo Group internal combustion engines can run on renewable diesel, lowering carbon intensity while maintaining performance and reliability.

This flexibility ensures customers can transition at their own pace—choosing from a spectrum of powertrain solutions without compromising uptime or ROI.

Scalable Solutions for Real-World Demands

Volvo Penta’s strategy centers on scalability, modularity, and user-friendliness. Whether it’s powering a fire truck, a remote loader, or an off-grid charger, the approach remains consistent: build from proven Volvo Group tech, adapt to the application, and deliver complete solutions.

Their ongoing work with OEMs like Rosenbauer, Gradall, and TICO reinforces their ability to meet specific market needs while reducing time-to-market for new electric models.

Why It Matters

For automotive engineers, Volvo Penta’s approach illustrates how lean design principles can guide electrification efforts. By focusing on component reuse, thermal optimization, and charging practicality, they streamline both development and field deployment.

For investors, this modular BESS and electric drivetrain strategy signals low CapEx scalability, technology synergies across divisions, and a clear roadmap to electrified revenue in industrial markets.

Volvo Penta’s electrification model may not be flashy, but it’s robust, adaptable, and already working in the field—traits that suggest strong near-term returns and long-term market viability.

Team Up With Munro

To dive deeper into teardown insights, lean engineering strategies, and the future of industrial EV applications, follow Munro & Associates. Whether you’re designing the next-gen electric tractor or scouting infrastructure investment opportunities, our analysis brings you closer to the front lines of electrification.

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