Volvo Trucks, the company behind this, is actually a separate division from Volvo car. While they haven't released any details regarding the truck's battery or powertrain, they believe the project will help cut down on environmental pollution, as well as reducing noise pollution. This would allow them to operate at more unorthodox hours, according to Claes Nilsson, President Volvo Trucks.
"Transport may take place throughout less busy periods, for example in late evening and at night. This will reduce the burden on the roads during daytime rush-hour traffic,"
According to research by Stockholm City, Sweden and KTH Royal Institute of Technology, a truck operation that takes place at night were able to complete assignments 30% quicker than during standard operating hours. The quiet nature of electric vehicles means they won't disturb sleeping residents.
This is quite possibly an action made in response to when Tesla announced that they will be releasing their own line of electric semi trucks. Multiple major corporations were quick to invest in Tesla's product, showing an industrial interest in the idea.
Volvo Trucks will launch the first electric semi trucks in 2019, with select customers to receive them a year early.
