Volvo impulsa gas: más ventas, menos emisiones y 1000 km de autonomía

In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, the transportation industry is under pressure to innovate and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Amid this shift, gas-powered trucks are emerging as a promising alternative for a cleaner transportation future. Volvo Trucks is at the forefront of this transition, reporting a remarkable 25% increase in sales in 2024, surpassing 8,000 units sold globally. This article explores the implications of this shift, the technology behind gas trucks, and their role in the broader context of sustainable transport.

Growing Demand for Gas-Powered Trucks

The global demand for gas-powered trucks is rising sharply, particularly in Europe, where countries like Sweden, Norway, the Netherlands, Spain, and the United Kingdom are leading the charge. The expansion of infrastructure for natural gas and biogas refueling stations has facilitated the adoption of these vehicles. In 2024 alone, global biogas production surged by 21%, enabling users to cut their CO₂ emissions by up to 100% when utilizing renewable gas sources.

This growing acceptance is indicative of a broader trend towards cleaner energy sources in the transport sector. As governments implement stricter emissions regulations and consumers become more environmentally conscious, the market for gas trucks is expected to expand further.

Technical Specifications and Capabilities

Volvo's lineup of gas-powered trucks includes the FM, FH, and FH Aero models, available in various configurations such as 4x2, 6x2, and 6x4. These trucks are designed to handle loads of up to 60 tons and offer an impressive range of up to 1,000 kilometers. This makes them suitable for long-haul transportation, regional distribution, and construction projects.

At the heart of these vehicles is the G13 GNL engine, a sophisticated powertrain developed from the diesel D13 Euro 6 engine. Key features of the G13 GNL include:

• Available in 420, 460, and 500 horsepower variants.
• Utilizes HPDI (High Pressure Direct Injection) technology for efficiency.
• Operates on LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) or biogas, with minimal diesel required for ignition.
• Compatibility with HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) to further reduce carbon footprint.

This technology ensures that gas trucks can compete with traditional diesel engines in terms of performance and efficiency.

Economic and Environmental Benefits

Switching to gas-powered trucks presents numerous advantages for fleet operators. According to Jan Hjelmgren, Product Management Director at Volvo Trucks, many customers are transitioning from diesel fleets to gas vehicles as a swift method to lower emissions without sacrificing productivity. The benefits include:

• Lower operational costs due to reduced fuel expenses.
• High performance comparable to conventional diesel engines.
• Enhanced driving experience characterized by less noise and vibration.

These factors contribute to the growing appeal of gas-powered trucks, making them an attractive option for businesses focused on sustainability and cost-efficiency.

The Role of Biogas in Sustainable Transport

Volvo's long-term strategy for achieving net-zero emissions by 2040 encompasses three primary pathways: battery electric vehicles, fuel cell electric vehicles, and combustion engines compatible with renewable fuels. Within this framework, biogas is positioned as a crucial element in accelerating the transition to sustainable transportation.

Biogas, produced from organic materials, not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also promotes waste recycling. Key benefits of biogas include:

• Renewable energy source that can be produced locally.
• Reduction of landfill waste through organic material conversion.
• Significant decrease in methane emissions compared to conventional fossil fuels.

This emphasis on biogas aligns with global sustainability goals and the growing need for cleaner transportation solutions.

Future Prospects for Gas Trucks

While Volvo currently does not offer compressed natural gas (CNG) versions in certain markets, the increasing competition and demand suggest that this may change in the near future. With rivals already introducing CNG options and capturing market share, it is likely that Volvo will expand its portfolio to include these vehicles.

As the infrastructure for gas refueling continues to grow, along with advancements in gas engine technology, the prospects for gas trucks look promising. Industry experts predict that the transition to gas-powered vehicles will be a significant milestone in achieving a more sustainable transport sector.

Conclusion: The Intersection of Innovation and Sustainability

The advancements in gas-powered trucks represent a significant step towards reducing the environmental impact of the transportation industry. As Volvo and other manufacturers invest in cleaner technologies, we can anticipate a future where emissions are minimized, and efficiency is maximized. This shift not only addresses the urgent need for sustainable solutions but also opens up new business opportunities for fleet operators around the globe.

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