Volvo’s new hybrid truck could slash emissions by 30%

Volvo’s first hybrid vehicle designed for long haul journeys could slash fuel consumption and emissions by 30%. The Volvo Concept Truck uses a hybrid powertrain to store energy when driving […]

Volvo’s first hybrid vehicle designed for long haul journeys could slash fuel consumption and emissions by 30%.

The Volvo Concept Truck uses a hybrid powertrain to store energy when driving downhill or braking, which is then used to power the vehicle in electric mode on flat roads and shallow gradients.

This highly efficient engine system is further aided by the truck’s aerodynamic and lightweight design.

Volvo’s driver support system ‘I-See’ has been enhanced to get the most out of the hybrid vehicle – it analyses the road ahead to calculate the most economical and efficient balance between using the diesel engine and the electric motor, as well as the optimal time to use the recovered energy.

The truck will be able to drive in full electric mode for up to 10 kilometres, enabling the vehicle to operate with zero emissions and low noise.

Lars Mårtensson, Director of Environment and Innovation at Volvo Trucks, said: “Today, long haul transport accounts for a significant share of the total energy consumption in the transportation sector.

“Using hybrid technology, the potential reduction in fuel and emissions is considerable and an important step towards reaching both our and society’s environmental goals for the future.”

Volvo announced a SuperTruck demonstrator in 2016 that used an improved engine, solar panels, thermal efficiency upgrades and lightweight materials to reduce fuel consumption – the new truck takes these savings further.

More than 10,000 motorists in the UK bought fully electric vehicles in 2016.

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