Fuel saving potential

Looking at the whole picture

Creating sustainable transport solutions requires taking the full spectrum of the transport sector, such as the infrastructure, fuel producers, drivers and the vehicle, into account. This means that joint efforts with different actors in society are needed. When examining the possibilities of further improvements to the driveline, design, weight and tires, the estimated fuel saving possibilities for a standard truck is 15% in 2020 compared with the fuel consumption in 2005. The other possible fuel savings presented in this illustration would be additions to that figure. Using a hybrid driveline can further improve the fuel savings.

1 l diesel = 2.6 kg CO2

Design -5%

Improving the cab design can reduce air resistance and contribute to a fuel saving by 5 to 10%.

Fuel efficient driving -5%

The concept of fuel-efficient driving enables the driver to lower the fuel consumption by 5% to 10%.

25.25 meters -15%

With a vehicle length of 25.25 meters instead of the current 18 meters in the EU, three truck-trailer sets can be replaced by two. The legislation on the EU level permits longer vehicles, but the legislation is not yet implemented in all national laws.

Low weight -5%

Thanks to a weight-optimized design, each vehicle can carry higher loads.

Tires -5%

Low rolling resistance tires can affect the fuel consumption by 5%.

Side spoilers -5%

Adding side spoilers can contribute to reducing air restistance.

Efficient engines -3%

When Volvo Truck Euro V engine was introduced in the beginning of 2009, the fuel saving potential was 3% compared to the previous engine generation.

Source: Final report to the European Commision -DG Climate Action Lot 1 Strategy