Volvo Trucks is significantly ramping up its use of low-CO2-emission steel, produced from recycled materials and fossil-free energy, in a bid to further reduce its environmental impact. This innovative steel, made by Swedish steel producer SSAB, will be incorporated into tens of thousands of Volvo trucks starting in 2024, marking a major step in the company’s journey towards achieving net-zero emissions.
Expanding Sustainable Steel Use Across Truck Models
After pioneering the introduction of low-CO2-emission steel in its electric trucks in 2022, Volvo is now extending its use to include all drivelines across its product range. The new steel, called SSAB Zero, is produced using fossil-free electricity and biogas, resulting in an 80% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to conventional steel production methods.
In 2024, approximately 12,000 Volvo FH and FM trucks will feature frame rails made from this low-CO2-emission steel, leading to a reduction of 6,600 tons of CO2 equivalents. Volvo plans to gradually integrate this steel into other truck models and parts as availability increases.
A Path Towards Net-Zero Emissions
As nearly half of a Volvo FH diesel truck’s material composition is steel (47%), transitioning to low-CO2-emission alternatives presents a significant opportunity to reduce the vehicle’s carbon footprint. Steel accounts for 44% of the CO2 emissions from the production of these trucks, making Volvo’s push toward greener materials an essential component of its sustainability strategy.
“This is an additional step towards our zero-emissions vision,” said Jan Hjelmgren, Senior Vice President of Product Management and Quality at Volvo Trucks. “We are proud to lead the way in the industry when it comes to sustainable materials in our trucks.”
Volvo is also exploring alternatives to other materials, such as aluminum and plastic, to further reduce the emissions associated with truck production. The company’s commitment aligns with the Paris Agreement’s climate goals, with Volvo aiming to achieve net-zero emissions across its supply chain by 2040.
Collaborating for a Sustainable Future
Volvo Group has partnered with several suppliers to accelerate the use of low-CO2-emission steel. This initiative is part of the company’s broader effort to increase circularity in its operations, with many of its factories, transport systems, and dealerships already powered by renewable energy.
As Volvo Trucks continues to innovate and push the boundaries of sustainable vehicle manufacturing, the company’s increased use of low-CO2-emission steel represents a crucial step towards reducing the environmental impact of its heavy-duty trucks and meeting its long-term climate goals.
