Volvo tests hydrogen-powered trucks with diesel-like performance ahead of 2030 launch
VOLVO has begun on-road testing of heavy-duty trucks powered by hydrogen combustion engines, marking a significant step toward net-zero CO2 emissions in transport. The company’s hydrogen solution is positioned as industry-leading, with a commercial launch planned before 2030.
Volvo’s hydrogen-powered trucks are expected to deliver strong performance, combining higher energy efficiency, lower fuel consumption, and increased engine power compared with conventional hydrogen combustion technologies.
This performance is enabled by High Pressure Direct Injection (HPDI), a technology in which a small amount of ignition fuel is injected at high pressure to enable compression ignition before hydrogen is introduced. Volvo has already deployed HPDI in its gas-powered trucks, with more than 10,000 units sold globally.
“On-road testing is an important milestone for our hydrogen combustion engine trucks. I am confident they will lead the industry in fuel efficiency, power, torque, and drivability. Customers will be able to operate them just like diesel trucks,” says Jan Hjelmgren, Head of Product Management at Volvo Trucks.
Hydrogen combustion engine trucks are particularly suited to long-haul transport and regions where charging infrastructure is limited or where there is insufficient time for recharging battery-electric trucks.
When powered by green hydrogen and renewable HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) as ignition fuel, these trucks have the potential to deliver net-zero CO2 emissions on a well-to-wheel basis. Under current EU CO2 emission standards, they are classified as Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEVs).
Volvo’s hydrogen engine technology builds on its proven diesel powertrain platform, offering familiar performance characteristics while significantly reducing emissions.
The hydrogen combustion trucks will complement Volvo’s broader portfolio of low- and zero-emission solutions, including battery-electric trucks, fuel cell electric trucks, and vehicles powered by renewable fuels such as biogas and HVO.
“We see strong potential for hydrogen combustion engine trucks, and they will play an important role in the transition to zero tailpipe emission transport. Decarbonisation will require multiple technologies. As a global truck manufacturer, we offer a range of solutions to help customers choose the best option based on their transport needs, available infrastructure, and access to green energy,” Hjelmgren adds.
Volvo hydrogen combustion trucks use fuel-efficient HPDI technology developed by Cespira and are expected to offer range exceeding daily driving needs. Hydrogen can also power fuel cell trucks.
