Volvo Trucks Pioneering Hydrogen Combustion Engine Technology
Key Ideas
  • Volvo Trucks is developing trucks with combustion engines that run on hydrogen, aiming to start on-road tests by 2026 and commercial launch by the end of the decade.
  • The hydrogen-powered combustion engines will offer high energy efficiency, lower fuel consumption, and potentially net zero CO2 emissions when using green hydrogen.
  • The technology, High Pressure Direct Injection (HPDI), will enable compression ignition before hydrogen is added, providing performance and reliability similar to diesel trucks.
  • Volvo Group has partnered with Westport Fuel Systems to establish a joint venture for utilizing the HPDI technology, expected to be operational by the second quarter of 2024.
Volvo Trucks has announced its pioneering development of trucks with combustion engines that run on hydrogen, marking a significant advance in the emerging field of hydrogen combustion engine technology. The company plans to commence on-road tests of hydrogen internal combustion engine (ICE) powered trucks in 2026, with a commercial launch scheduled towards the end of the decade. These trucks, running on green hydrogen, offer a promising way to decarbonize transport, especially suitable for longer distances and regions with limited charging infrastructure. Volvo's hydrogen-powered combustion engines will feature High Pressure Direct Injection (HPDI) technology, providing higher energy efficiency, lower fuel consumption, and increased engine power. With the potential to achieve net zero CO2 emissions well-to-wheel when fueled by green hydrogen, these trucks are classified as Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEV) under new EU CO2 emission standards. The company emphasizes that these hydrogen combustion engine trucks will offer performance and reliability akin to diesel trucks, with the added benefit of reduced emissions. Volvo Trucks aims to offer a diverse range of decarbonization solutions to support its global customers, allowing them to choose alternatives based on transport needs, available infrastructure, and green energy prices. To implement the HPDI technology, Volvo Group has entered a partnership with Westport Fuel Systems to form a joint venture, slated to start operations by the second quarter of 2024. This collaborative effort underscores Volvo's commitment to innovation and sustainability in the transportation sector, furthering the adoption of green energy and contributing to a more environmentally friendly future.
ADVANCEH2

Our vision is to be the world's leading online platform for advancing the use of hydrogen as a critical piece needed to deliver net-zero initiatives and the promise of a clean H2 energy future.

© 2024 AdvanceH2, LLC. All rights reserved.