Hydrogen combustion technology for heavy-duty transport

With the start of extensive field testing of heavy-duty trucks powered by hydrogen combustion engines, Volvo Trucks is advancing the development of low-CO₂ transport solutions. The new generation of powertrains is designed to deliver a high-performance and efficient alternative for demanding transport applications.

High-performance hydrogen combustion
The hydrogen-powered trucks are based on an advanced engine concept that delivers high energy efficiency, reduced fuel consumption and increased engine output. Compared to conventional hydrogen combustion technologies, Volvo applies optimized injection and combustion processes.

At the core of the system is High Pressure Direct Injection (HPDI). In this process, a small amount of ignition fuel is injected at high pressure to initiate compression ignition, followed by the injection of hydrogen. This enables efficient and controlled combustion.

Proven technology foundation
HPDI technology is already successfully used in gas-powered trucks, with more than 10,000 units operating worldwide. This experience provides a strong foundation for further development toward hydrogen-based applications in heavy-duty transport.

The new engine concept builds on proven diesel powertrain architecture, combined with targeted innovations to achieve diesel-like performance with significantly lower CO₂ emissions.

Suitable for long-haul and limited infrastructure environments
Hydrogen combustion trucks are particularly suited for long-haul transport and for regions where charging infrastructure for battery-electric vehicles is limited.

When powered by green hydrogen and combined with renewable ignition fuels such as HVO, these trucks can achieve near CO₂-neutral performance on a well-to-wheel basis. According to current EU regulations, they are classified as “Zero Emission Vehicles” (ZEV).

Part of a multi-technology strategy
Hydrogen combustion technology complements Volvo Trucks’ existing portfolio, which includes battery-electric trucks, fuel cell vehicles and solutions based on renewable fuels.

This multi-technology approach enables customers to select the most suitable solution depending on operational requirements, infrastructure availability and energy costs.

Driving the transition to low-emission transport
Hydrogen combustion engines represent a key component in the transition toward low- and zero-emission transport. Alongside battery-electric and fuel cell technologies, they offer a practical solution for applications where range, uptime and flexibility are critical.

With this development, Volvo Trucks reinforces its position in the evolving market for sustainable heavy-duty transport and highlights the importance of diversified technologies in achieving long-term decarbonization goals.

Edited by Maria Brueva, Induportals editor – adapted by AI.

www.volvotrucks.com