Volvo’s new truck is powered by vegetables and hydrogen, trials begin 2026

Volvo Trucks is set to revolutionise heavy transport with the development of hydrogen-powered combustion engines.

These innovative trucks, which run on hydrogen and a traditional ‘ignition fuel’, mark a significant step towards Volvo’s net zero emissions goal and support customers in reaching their decarbonisation targets. 

On-road tests are stated to begin in 2026, with a commercial launch planned towards the end of the decade.

The introduction of hydrogen trucks is especially promising for long-distance transport and regions with limited charging infrastructure, providing a practical solution to decarbonise transport. 

By running on hydrogen, these trucks will offer the same performance and reliability as traditional diesel trucks, but with the potential for net zero CO2 emissions well-to-wheel when using green hydrogen.

Jan Hjelmgren, Head of Product Management and Quality at Volvo Trucks, said: “Trucks where the traditional internal combustion engine remains but runs on hydrogen will have the same performance and reliability as our diesel trucks, but with the added benefit of potentially net zero CO2 emissions well-to-wheel. 

“They will be a valuable complement to our battery electric trucks, which have been on the market for several years.”

Volvo trucks with hydrogen-powered combustion engines will feature High Pressure Direct Injection (HPDI), a technology where a small amount of ignition fuel (like sustainable HVO hydrogenated vegetable oil) is injected with high pressure to enable compression ignition before hydrogen is added.

The advantages of this technology include higher energy efficiency with lower fuel consumption, and increased engine power.

To further advance this initiative, Volvo Group has partnered with Westport Fuel Systems to establish a joint venture leveraging HPDI technology. 

This collaboration is expected to become operational in the second quarter of 2024, underscoring Volvo’s dedication to pioneering sustainable transport technologies.

Key facts about Volvo’s hydrogen trucks:

• Operational Range is comparable to many diesel trucks, ideal for long distances and regions with limited charging infrastructure.
• These trucks are classified as Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEV) under new EU CO2 standards due to their low CO2 emissions from hydrogen combustion.
• These trucks emit very small amounts of nitrogen oxides and particles, contributing to cleaner air.