Volvo’s Euro Efficiency Concept Truck Now Boasts Hybrid Power
Euro-spec Volvo Concept Truck boasts hybrid diesel-electric powertrain. Photo: Volvo Trucks
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Euro-spec Volvo Concept Truck boasts hybrid diesel-electric powertrain. Photo: Volvo Trucks
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Sweden’s Volvo Trucks has developed its first hybrid truck designed for long-haul applications— a concept vehicle based on its European-spec Volvo FH cabover tractor powered by Volvo’s own D13 Euro 6 emissions-compliant diesel engine.
The diesel-electric hybrid powertrain combined with the Volvo Concept Truck’s other efficiency improvements yields a total reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 production of around 30%, according to the OEM.
When first rolled out in May 2016, the Volvo Concept Truck featured extensive improvements in aerodynamics, rolling resistance and reduced weight. It was developed via a similar public-private initiative as the SuperTruck program that Volvo has participated in with the U.S. Department of Energy. The Volvo Concept Truck came about via the Swedish part of a bilateral research project involving the Swedish energy authority Energimyndigheten and the U.S. Department of Energy.
Volvo Trucks said the Swedish concept’s hybrid powertrain works by recovering energy when driving downhill on slopes steeper than 1% or when braking. The recovered energy is stored in the vehicle’s batteries and used to power the truck in electric mode on flat roads or low gradients.
In addition, an enhanced version of Volvo Trucks’ driver support system I-See has been developed specifically for the hybrid powertrain. It’s used to analyze upcoming topography to calculate the most economical and efficient choice between the diesel engine and the electric motor– as well as the optimal time to use the recovered energy.
In long haul transportation, it is estimated that the hybrid powertrain will allow the combustion engine to be shut off for up to 30% of driving time, according to Volvo Trucks.
The OEM estimated that will save between 5-10% cent in fuel, depending on the vehicle type, specifications and drive cycle. It also offers the ability to drive in …Read the rest of this story
