Volvo Trucks Surpasses Energy Efficiency Goal with SuperTruck 2
In a remarkable achievement, Volvo Trucks has exceeded the U.S. Department of Energy’s challenge to design a tractor-trailer that is 100 percent more efficient than a baseline vehicle. The automaker announced that its SuperTruck 2 has surpassed this goal by achieving an impressive 134 percent increase in efficiency compared to an equivalent tractor-trailer from 2009.
Aerodynamic and material improvements have played a significant role in the SuperTruck 2’s exceptional efficiency gains. Volvo Trucks describes the cab as having a perfectly wedge-shaped design with a wraparound windshield. Additionally, the fairings and boat tail on the trailer contribute to reducing drag by 50 percent compared to the automaker’s 2009 baseline truck.
However, the SuperTruck 2’s efficiency is not solely attributed to its aerodynamics. Volvo Trucks has also implemented weight reduction measures, such as using a composite driveshaft and reducing the number of axles compared to other American trucks. The cab itself is shorter, requiring less material for construction.
Moreover, Volvo Trucks took a holistic approach to the project by incorporating a 48-volt mild hybrid system into the SuperTruck 2. This system acts as a generator with an integrated starter, allowing drivers to power their comfort features without idling the engine for extended periods of time.
While the SuperTruck 2 was initially designed as a concept, Volvo Trucks has already begun implementing the lessons learned from its development into its production trucks. The company emphasizes that it wanted to test the efficiency gains of this project in real-world conditions, rather than solely relying on wind tunnel testing or lab simulations.
Peter Voorhoeve, President of Volvo Trucks North America, stated, “The project team deliberately focused on driving in real-world conditions for testing…our SuperTruck 2 was tested in real-world scenarios on roads with traffic and elevation changes with a GCVW of 65,000 lbs.”
Volvo Trucks plans to showcase the SuperTruck 2 to the public for the first time at the American Trucking Associations’ 2023 Management Conference & Exhibition in Austin, Texas. Alongside the SuperTruck 2, the company will also present the all-electric VNR Electric 6×2 Day Cab Tractor, featuring a range of up to 275 miles (442 km) and a powerful electric motor capable of producing 455 hp (339 kW/461 PS) and 4,051 lb-ft (5,492 Nm) of torque.
This achievement by Volvo Trucks demonstrates the company’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of heavy-duty transportation technology. By surpassing the energy efficiency goal set by the U.S. Department of Energy, Volvo Trucks has showcased its advanced engineering capabilities and dedication to creating more sustainable and efficient vehicles for the future.
In conclusion, the SuperTruck 2’s remarkable efficiency gains through aerodynamic and material improvements, weight reduction measures, and the integration of a mild hybrid system highlight Volvo Trucks’ commitment to innovation and sustainability in the trucking industry. With these advancements already being implemented in production trucks, Volvo Trucks is paving the way for a more energy-efficient future in heavy-duty transportation.
