Volvo Trucks Uses Fossil-Free Steel for Its Trucks

As the world’s first truck manufacturer, Volvo is now introducing fossil-free steel in its trucks. The steel is produced by the Swedish steel company SSAB, and Volvo’s heavy electric trucks will be the first to use it.

(Stockholm) The steel from SSAB is produced using a completely new technology based on hydrogen. The result is a significantly lower climate impact compared to conventionally produced steel. To a small extent, the steel will be used in Volvo’s heavy electric trucks starting in the third quarter of 2022.

“We will increase the use of fossil-free materials in all our trucks to make them climate-neutral not only in operation but also in the materials they are made from,” says Jessica Sandström, Senior Vice President Product Management at Volvo Trucks.

The first hydrogen-produced steel will be used in the truck’s frame rails, which form the backbone of the truck on which all other main components are mounted. As the availability of fossil-free steel increases, it will also be used in other parts of the truck.

90% of a Volvo Truck Can Be Recycled

Around 30% of the materials in a new Volvo truck currently come from recycled materials. Up to 90% of the truck can be recycled at the end of its life cycle.

“We are constantly striving to further minimize our CO2 footprint. Additionally, we aim for greater sustainability, both in our operations and in our vehicles,” says Jessica Sandström.

The Volvo Group has been working with SSAB on fossil-free steel since 2021. The first machine, a load carrier made from fossil-free steel, was unveiled in October 2021. Fossil-free steel will be an important addition to the traditional and recycled steel used in Volvo trucks.

Volvo Trucks is committed to the Paris Agreement and aims to achieve no greenhouse gas emissions in its value chain by 2040.

Photo: © Volvo Trucks