Volvo Trucks' I-Save system has been upgraded to reduce fuel consumption while also significantly reducing CO2 emissions and providing a more comfortable driving experience. The I-Save system upgrades engine technology, control software, and aerodynamic design. All of these upgrades are aimed at achieving a common goal – maximizing fuel efficiency.
Volvo Trucks has now further upgraded the I-Save system on the Volvo FH to ensure an optimized engine combustion process by adapting the injector, compressor and camshaft to its unique new wavy piston. This technology not only reduces the total engine weight, but also reduces internal friction. In addition to upgrades to high-performance turbochargers and oil pumps, air, oil and fuel filters also achieve better performance thanks to their patented technology.
"Starting with an already high-performing engine, we're working on improving many key details that come together to help achieve better fuel efficiency. These upgrades are designed to get more available energy from every drop of fuel. Helena Alsi, vice president of powertrain product management at Volvo Trucks, said.
Helena Alsi, Vice President of Powertrain Product Management at Volvo Trucks
Smoother, smarter, faster
At the heart of the I-Save system is the D13TC engine – a 13-litre engine powered by Volvo's compound turbocharging technology. The engine can accommodate longer high-end, low-rpm rides, making the ride smoother and quieter. The D13TC engine operates efficiently in the full rev range, with an optimal speed of 900 to 1,300 rpm.
In addition to the hardware upgrades, a new generation of engine management software has been added that works in synergy with the upgraded I-Shift gearbox. Intelligent upgrades to shift technology make the vehicle more responsive and have a smoother driving experience, improving fuel economy and making handling more prominent.
I-Torque is an intelligent powertrain control software that analyzes terrain data in real time through the I-See cruise system, adapting the vehicle to the current road conditions and thus improving fuel efficiency. The I-See system maximizes the use of the vehicle's own kinetic energy by enabling trucks traveling in hilly areas with real-time road condition information. The I-Torque Engine Torque Control system controls gear, engine torque and braking system.
"To reduce fuel consumption, the truck starts with the "ECO" mode, and as a driver, you can always get the power you need easily, as well as quick gear changes and torque response from the drivetrain. Helena Alsi continued.
When trucks travel long distances, their aerodynamic design plays a big role in reducing fuel consumption. Volvo Trucks has undergone many upgrades in aerodynamic design, such as narrower clearances in front of the cab and longer doors.
Since the introduction of the I-Save system in 2019, it has been serving Volvo Trucks customers well. In order to repay the customer's love, a new 420hp engine has been added to the previous 460hp and 500hp engines. All engines are HVO100 certified (HVO100 is a renewable fuel in the form of hydrogenated vegetable oil).
Volvo Trucks FH, FM and FMX with 11 or 13-litre Euro VI engines have also been upgraded to further improve fuel efficiency.
Shift towards non-fossil fuel models
Volvo Trucks aims to account for 50 percent of total truck sales by 2030, but the internal combustion engine will also continue to play a role. The newly upgraded I-Save system provides better fuel efficiency and guarantees lower CO2 emissions.
"We are committed to complying with the Paris Climate Agreement and will remain steadfast in reducing carbon emissions from road freight. In the long run, even if we know that electric mobility is an important solution to reduce carbon emissions, energy-efficient internal combustion engines will play an important role in the coming years. Helena Alsi concluded.