Volvo has announced the commencement of on-road testing for its new heavy trucks powered by hydrogen combustion engines. This marks a significant step toward the company’s goal to introduce these vehicles in Europe before 2030. The testing phase aims to validate the performance and reliability of these trucks under real-world conditions.
Jan Hjelmgren, head of product management at Volvo Trucks, emphasized the importance of this milestone. He expressed confidence that Volvo’s hydrogen combustion engine trucks will lead the industry in fuel efficiency, power, torque, and drivability. According to Hjelmgren, customers will be able to operate these hydrogen trucks similarly to traditional diesel trucks, benefiting from familiar handling and performance.
The technology behind these trucks includes High Pressure Direct Injection (HPDI), where a small amount of ignition fuel is injected under high pressure to enable compression ignition before hydrogen is introduced. Volvo already uses HPDI technology in over 10,000 gas-powered trucks, demonstrating its effectiveness. For hydrogen-powered engines, Volvo expects improvements such as higher energy efficiency, reduced fuel consumption, and increased engine power compared to conventional hydrogen combustion methods.
Volvo highlights that hydrogen combustion engine trucks are especially suitable for long-distance transport and areas lacking sufficient charging infrastructure for battery-electric vehicles. These trucks can help address challenges related to charging times and infrastructure availability. Moreover, when powered by green hydrogen and renewable hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), these vehicles have the potential to achieve net-zero CO2 emissions from well-to-wheel.
Hjelmgren pointed out that multiple technologies will be necessary to achieve full decarbonization of the transport sector. As a global truck manufacturer, Volvo offers a range of solutions including battery electric trucks, fuel cell electric trucks, and vehicles running on renewable fuels. The company aims to help customers select the most appropriate option based on transport needs, infrastructure access, and energy costs.
A widespread adoption of hydrogen trucks depends heavily on the development of hydrogen refueling infrastructure and competitive pricing for hydrogen fuel. Volvo continues to collaborate with partners and stakeholders to support this infrastructure rollout and promote green energy solutions.
The ongoing on-road tests will provide valuable data on the practical use of hydrogen combustion engines in heavy-duty trucking. This initiative reflects Volvo’s commitment to innovation and sustainability as it prepares for a future with lower emissions and cleaner transport options.
