It saves fuel. It cuts emissions. And it can be used with alternative fuels.
Yes, hybrid technology is one of the most promising and competitive technologies for commercial vehicles.
The Volvo Group is now introducing the fourth generation hybrid solution on a broad front in buses, trucks and construction equipment.
A versatile technology
The hybrid driveline cleverly exploits the benefits of different engine types and energy-storage systems. It combines the torque of the electric motor and the combustion engine in the optimum way.
The most suitable vehicles for hybrid drivelines are those that operate in continuous stop-go conditions such as buses and refuse or distribution trucks. In construction machines, the electric motor can be used to power the vehicle’s hydraulic systems.
“As a result of our volumes and resources, we have succeeded in developing a more standardized platform solution, which is a prerequisite for the hybrid technology’s ability to have a widespread commercial impact in the market for heavy vehicles,” says Leif Johansson, President and CEO of Volvo Group.
Our hybrid solutions…
- cuts fuel consumption by up to 20% for refuse handling trucks
- eliminates up to 20% of CO2 emissions from city distribution trucks and commuter buses
- reduces the fuel consumption of wheel loaders by up to 10%
- makes trucks and buses operate virtually noiseless at low speeds
- enables zero emissions of NOx and particulates when vehicle is in electric drive are CO2-neutral when run on biofuel
First hybrid
The Volvo Group has long experience in the development of hybrid drivelines. Our first commercial hybrid bus was presented in the 1970's. The Environmental Concept Truck and Bus was presented in 1994. They were powered by a gas turbine combined with an electric motor.
Recent developments
Now in 2008, it is fair to say that hybrid technology has reached an advanced stage. Proof of this include the hybrid dump trucks placed in service at operators by Mack Trucks, the field tests with hybrid refuse trucks initiated by Volvo Trucks, and the hybrid wheel loader displayed by Volvo Construction Equipment at ConExpo 2008.
…and there’s more to come
In September, Volvo Buses is launching its new hybrid bus in Europe, the Volvo 7700 Hybrid. It was unveiled for the first time at the major IAA Commercial Vehicles show in Hanover, Germany in September. Volvo Group at IAA