Volvo Trucks has announced that it has started public road trials of its hydrogen fuel cell electric trucks. This significant milestone represents a turning point as the Volvo hydrogen electric trucks, emitting only water vapor, are expected to play an important role in Volvo Trucks’ environmentally friendly product portfolio that is devoid of carbon emissions.
Last year, for the first time, Volvo Trucks unveiled a hydrogen electric truck that produces zero exhaust emissions.
This truck generates its own electricity using hydrogen, making it suitable for long-distance transportation.
Although this is the first public road test for the Volvo hydrogen electric truck, it had previously completed successful trials in extremely cold conditions in northern Sweden, which is known for its harsh driving environments.
Helena Alsiö, Vice President of Powertrain Products at Volvo Trucks, stated, “The hydrogen fuel cell electric truck that is currently undergoing testing has been on the road in various climates for a week. The harsh public road conditions in northern Sweden, characterized by strong winds and heavy snowfall, which lead to icy sections, are ideal for testing against severe environments. Before this public trial, after a digital 1st test, we conducted preliminary tests on a limited track near Gothenburg, Sweden, and we are pleased to announce that public road testing is proceeding successfully.”
The hydrogen-powered fuel cell electric truck is particularly suited for long-distance transportation and for regional transport in rural areas where battery electric trucks have limitations due to the lack of charging infrastructure.
Volvo Trucks is currently mass-producing a total of six electric truck models, holding the industry’s most extensive lineup, which meets various transportation requirements both in and out of urban areas.
Trials of Volvo’s hydrogen fuel cell trucks targeting customers in the logistics sector are expected to commence within the next few years, with commercialization planned before 2030.
The Volvo Group is collaborating with Daimler Group to accelerate the development of a fuel cell system tailored for large commercial vehicles.
Roger Alm, President of Volvo Trucks, emphasized, “We must act now to stop global warming. Decarbonization of transport is an unavoidable prerequisite that cannot be deferred, regardless of the type of transport or region. Within the next few years, Volvo Trucks’ customers will be able to drive carbon-neutral trucks with zero carbon dioxide emissions.”
Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr