Volvo Trucks' Hydrogen-Powered Combustion Engines: Driving Towards Decarbonisation
Key Ideas
  • Volvo Trucks plans to start on-road tests in 2026 with trucks using hydrogen in combustion engines, aiming for global commercial launch by the end of the decade.
  • Hydrogen-powered trucks offer a significant step towards Volvo's net zero goal, complementing battery electric and fuel cell electric trucks.
  • The use of green hydrogen in combustion engines can lead to low CO2 emissions and high energy efficiency, contributing to decarbonisation of transport.
  • South Africa is also advancing in green hydrogen projects, with initiatives like the 'Hydrogen Valley' feasibility study and the Boegoebaai Hydrogen Cluster.
Volvo Trucks is making strides in sustainable transport by developing trucks with combustion engines powered by hydrogen. On-road tests with these innovative trucks are set to commence in 2026, with a global commercial launch planned for the end of the decade. This initiative is crucial for Volvo in achieving its net zero goal and assisting customers in meeting their decarbonisation targets. The hydrogen-powered trucks are seen as an effective way to decarbonise transport, especially for long distances and regions lacking charging infrastructure. Volvo Trucks aims to provide a variety of decarbonisation solutions, including battery electric trucks, fuel cell electric trucks, and those running on renewable fuels. The hydrogen-powered combustion engine trucks are expected to perform similarly to diesel trucks but with the added advantage of potentially lower CO2 emissions. Volvo Group has partnered with Westport Fuel Systems to establish a joint venture focusing on High Pressure Direct Injection (HPDI) technology, which enhances energy efficiency and engine power. In South Africa, green hydrogen projects like the 'Hydrogen Valley' study and Boegoebaai Hydrogen Cluster are paving the way for hydrogen-fuelled commercial vehicles in the region.
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