Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/708027
Volvo Trucks, with support from the Swedish Energy Agency, has devel- oped a new fuel-sipping concept truck, the result of a 5 year long research project aimed at creating more energy-efficient vehicles. Claes Nilsson, President and CEO Volvo Trucks, says energy-efficient trucks are a high-priority for the company, adding the Volvo Concept Truck – a Volvo FH 420 with D13 Euro 6 engine – cuts fuel consump- tion by more than 30 percent thanks to a 40 percent boost in both truck and trailer aerodynamic efficiency. "We've modified the entire rig and optimized it for improved aerody- namics as much as possible," says Åke Othzen, chief project manager for Volvo Trucks. "For instance, we use cameras instead of rear-view mirrors. This cuts air resistance, so less energy is needed to propel the truck." Aerodynamically optimized chassis side-skirts cover the rear wheels on the tractor and all the trailer wheels and spoilers extend the trailer, cut- ting air resistance. The company says it minimized air resistance at the front of the tractor, the wheel hous- ings and entry steps while optimiz- ing air flow for the engine's cooling system. In addition to the aerodynamic improvements, the concept truck is outfitted with newly developed lower rolling resistance tires. The trailer weighs two tons less than the refer- ence trailer, which translates into either lower fuel consumption or the By Jason Cannon 12 www.bigrigowner.com A U G U S T 2 0 1 6 High Performance Diesels > New Volvo concept truck slashes fuel consumption more than 30 percent HPD 0816.indd 1 7/8/16 9:20 AM