Click it and Unblock the Notifications
Volvo Trucks Unveils LNG Truck In India: Advances Sustainable Transportation
Volvo Trucks, a global truck major, has entered the Indian market with its 42-tonner FM420 LNG truck. With this entry, Volvo Eicher Commercial Vehicles (VECV), a joint venture between Volvo Trucks and Eicher Motors, claims to be the only OEM supplying and supporting heavy-duty diesel, LNG, and electric trucks in India.
The FM420 LNG truck from Volvo emits 20% less CO2 compared to equivalent diesel-run trucks. If powered by BioLNG, there is no CO2 emission at all. The truck uses High Pressure Direct Injection (HPDI) technology, which combines diesel and LNG in the ignition cycle.
According to Volvo, this technology ensures 15-20% better fuel efficiency compared to spark plug-ignited LNG engines. In terms of performance, driveability, and productivity, the LNG truck is on par with its diesel counterpart.
It has a cryogenic tank for LNG and a diesel tank. Currently imported through the Completely Built Unit (CBU) route, the FM420 LNG is more expensive than a diesel truck of the same tonnage.
However, with localization, its affordability would improve.The advantages of LNG technology and the favorable price difference in fuel cost compared to diesel in India are being pitched to attract customers.
With a growing focus on sustainable transportation, industries like cement and steel are looking for cleaner fuel technologies. Volvo Trucks aims to tap into all segments that use tractor trailers for transportation.
LNG-powered trucks have longer intervals between fuel refillings compared to diesel trucks. For example, the FM420 LNG can travel up to 1,000 km in a tankful. This makes them an attractive option despite the limited number of operational LNG stations in India.
Volvo Trucks' goal is to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040. The FM420 LNG is a key step towards this goal and aligns with India's vision of building a gas-based economy. The tractor-trailer market in India is also growing, making it an opportune time for Volvo Trucks to promote its LNG trucks.
India is an important market for Volvo Trucks, with an assembly plant, a global technology center, and a global purchasing office in the country. The company has been selling LNG trucks globally since 2017 and has sold around 7,500 units so far.
While the growth of the LNG truck market in India may be gradual, Volvo Trucks sees potential in the country. The FM420 LNG truck from Volvo offers convenience and comfort with its 16-speed gearbox and Volvo's I-Shift AMT system.
To further boost the LNG truck market, flexibility in LNG outlet allocation and distribution norms will be crucial. As more OEMs enter the space, the segment is expected to gain more traction in the coming years.
Continue with Google