Volvo Concept Truck Cuts Fuel Consumption by 30%

Volvo Group’s heavy-truck operations says its new concept tractor-trailer reduces fuel consumption by more than 30%.​

Much of the improvement is attributed to a 40% more aerodynamic design. This includes rear spoilers and optimized chassis side-skirts that cover the rear wheels on the tractor and all the trailer wheels.

The concept truck, which is powered by Volvo’s 12.8-liter D13 diesel engine, also gets an improved drivetrain, low-rolling-resistant tires and video cameras in place of side mirrors. The company says lightweight materials significantly reduce the weight of the trailer.

Volvo developed the concept in conjunction with the Swedish Energy Agency. The effort is part of a joint program between Sweden and the U.S. aimed at improving the fuel efficiency of long-haul trucks by 50%.

There are no plans to produce the Volvo model. But the company says several of the concept truck’s features already have been implemented in production models.