Volvo SuperTruck 2:
Volvo Trucks North America has unveiled its groundbreaking SuperTruck 2, a milestone achievement in heavy-duty transportation, which recently made its debut on the company’s YouTube channel. The SuperTruck 2 program, a collaborative effort between Volvo Trucks and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), set out to revolutionize the efficiency of long-haul tractor-trailer trucks, targeting a remarkable 100% improvement in freight efficiency compared to the 2009 baseline. Despite the formidable challenges posed by supply chain disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic, Volvo Trucks not only met but surpassed this ambitious goal, achieving an astonishing 134% increase in freight efficiency.
Enhanced Efficiency
What makes this unveiling so exciting is that Volvo Trucks’ SuperTruck 2 represents a leap forward in heavy-duty transportation technology. It’s a testament to the power of innovation, engineering prowess, and a commitment to sustainability. This achievement not only benefits the trucking industry but also has broader implications for reducing carbon emissions and enhancing the overall efficiency of freight transportation.
The SuperTruck 2 will make its official public appearance at the American Trucking Associations’ 2023 Management Conference & Exhibition in Austin, TX. This unveiling offers a sneak peek into the future of trucking, showcasing the styling and engineering cues that will shape the next generation of trucks.
Volvo Trucks
Peter Voorhoeve, President of Volvo Trucks North America, highlighted the importance of their partnership with the DOE, stating, “Partnering with the DOE for the SuperTruck program provides an exciting opportunity to push the technology envelope to see what’s technically possible for heavy-duty transportation and which solutions can be scaled into production.” This program has not only pushed the boundaries of what is achievable but also paved the way for innovations that could revolutionize the trucking industry.
The DOE’s SuperTruck 2 program aims to promote research and development of cost-effective, advanced efficiency technologies that are currently unavailable in the market. Volvo Trucks not only met the program’s goals but exceeded them, demonstrating a real-world 134% improvement in freight efficiency. This achievement showcases their dedication to advancing sustainable transportation solutions.
Exceptional Performance
One of the key factors contributing to SuperTruck 2’s exceptional performance is advanced aerodynamics. From a sleek, wedge-shaped cab design to a fully aerodynamic trailer with gap fairings, skirts, and a boat tail, Volvo Trucks has left no stone unturned in optimizing fuel efficiency. Innovative features like replacing traditional mirrors with a streamlined camera monitoring system have reduced drag by over 4%. These improvements have resulted in a 50% reduction in drag compared to the 2009 baseline, representing a significant step forward in aerodynamic design.
Moreover, engineers employed weight reduction strategies, achieving a curb weight of just 27,000 lbs. for the combined truck and trailer. The 4x2 configuration, uncommon in the U.S. but prevalent in Europe, offers payload efficiency, while the shorter cab design and lightweight aluminum chassis further contribute to reduced weight. These innovations make SuperTruck 2 a more environmentally friendly and efficient transportation solution.
Volvo Trucks also collaborated with project partners to incorporate a custom, lightweight aerodynamic trailer and advanced low-friction tires. These partnerships demonstrate a holistic approach to optimizing the entire truck and trailer system for maximum efficiency.
HVAC System
The driving environment has not been overlooked, with SuperTruck 2 featuring a 48-volt micro-hybrid system that powers driver comfort features. An all-electric HVAC system allows drivers to avoid idling during rest breaks while enjoying essential amenities.
Volvo Trucks’ SuperTruck 2 is not just an engineering marvel; it’s a game-changer for the trucking industry and a significant step toward more sustainable and efficient freight transportation. Its achievements in freight efficiency, aerodynamics, weight reduction, and driver comfort make it a beacon of innovation that promises to reshape the future of trucking, making it more environmentally responsible and economically efficient.
Bloom Services, Inc
Here at Bloom, we provide both Volvo 860s and Freightliner Cascadias on our Rental and Lease-Purchase Program. If you have a Class A CDL and two years of experience, Bloom Services is hiring OTR truckers. Our drivers take home $3,000 + a week after all expenses.