Volvo Trucks North America is set to introduce its own 13-liter liquefied natural gas (LNG) engine for the North American market in 2014, as part of the company’s commitment to providing sustainable transportation solutions.
The new engine, featuring advanced high-pressure diesel ignition technology, promises significant fuel efficiency improvements compared to current natural gas products. Alongside Volvo’s existing compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered VNM and VNL model daycabs, this addition will offer customers a comprehensive range of natural gas-powered options. Volvo is also exploring the potential of dimethyl ether (DME), another fuel derived from natural gas, as an alternative for the North American market.
Ron Huibers, President of Volvo Trucks North American Sales & Marketing, acknowledges the ongoing infrastructure challenges surrounding natural gas adoption but sees a promising future for the segment. Volvo’s LNG engine aims to address these challenges by offering increased range and improved fuel efficiency, aligning with the company’s commitment to technological innovation and sustainability.
The new LNG engine utilizes advanced high-pressure diesel ignition technology, igniting natural gas with trace amounts of diesel to deliver a 30% improvement in fuel efficiency compared to spark-ignition engines. This makes it suitable for demanding long-haul applications while reducing greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 20% compared to diesel products, without compromising power, torque, or fuel efficiency.
Volvo’s vertically integrated approach, combined with the proven performance of its proprietary Volvo I-Shift automated mechanical transmission, ensures seamless integration and optimized performance. Additionally, Volvo’s existing CNG-powered VNM daycab, equipped with a factory-installed Cummins ISL G engine, offers a solution for localized or closed-loop applications, meeting current demand while minimizing emissions and aftertreatment requirements.
Moreover, Volvo is exploring DME as a promising alternative fuel, conducting extensive customer field testing in Europe. DME shows potential as a heavy-truck fuel, offering performance comparable to diesel while significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Its handling characteristics, environmental impact, and safety features make it a compelling option for future transportation needs.
Volvo’s commitment to innovation and sustainability underscores its role as a leader in providing efficient and environmentally friendly transportation solutions for the North American market.
