Trucks
Every drop of fuel counts, yet power, torque, and reliability are equally essential. Traditionally, boosting engine power comes at the cost of fuel efficiency. Volvo Trucks’ all-new 13-litre engine platform, covering both diesel and gas-powered engines, is designed to defy that compromise.
A platform built to meet tougher requirements
The journey began in 2021, but it was built on years of experience in heavy-duty engine development. The project brought together a global engineering team from Volvo Trucks, mainly stationed in Gothenburg, Sweden.
”We knew we needed a single, global engine platform that could meet tougher emissions requirements, improve efficiency, and raise performance across all markets,” says Mats Morén, Chief Engineer Powertrain at Volvo Trucks.
”We knew we needed a single, global engine platform that could meet tougher emissions requirements, improve efficiency, and raise performance across all markets,” says Mats Morén, Chief Engineer Powertrain at Volvo Trucks.
Where the real gains were hidden
Instead of small tweaks, the engineers reimagined the engine as a fully integrated system. The new VGT (Variable Geometry Turbocharger), which the team calls “the best we’ve ever seen,” became a cornerstone of performance improvements. Paired with higher peak cylinder pressure, raised compression, and an innovative wave piston, it allowed a more efficient combustion.
“Each component alone is impressive,” says Mats Morén. “But together, they completely redefine what a heavy-duty engine can do.”
For the engineers, the proof really came in testing. The engine brake astonished everyone.
“When we initially tested it in a truck, it felt like someone had installed a new retarder,” Mats recalls. “Seeing the numbers on screen and knowing what we’d achieved sparked real excitement across the team.”
When we initially tested it in a truck, it felt like someone had installed a new retarder,” Mats recalls. “Seeing the numbers on screen and knowing what we’d achieved sparked real excitement across the team.
The key results of the new engines
The new 13-litre diesel engine now tops out at 560 hp, while the gas-powered engine delivers an impressive 2800 Nm torque, 300 Nm more torque than its predecessor. Improvements in fuel efficiency are immediately noticeable across all types of driving, translating into lower operational costs and reduced environmental impact.
The platform also achieves lower possible VECTO value for combustion engines. The new gas-powered engine will reach class 3 in many configurations. In regions where road tolls are linked to CO₂ performance, this directly translates into lower charges per kilometre.
Beyond these results, the new engines are also compatible with several alternative fuels – biodiesel, HVO, and Bio-LNG – enabling customers to take further steps toward fossil-free transport.
Breakthroughs for the road
The new 13-litre platform is also a story of engineering and collaboration. And the payoff is clear: stronger performance, smarter fuel use, and a platform ready for tomorrow.
“We’re particularly proud of the engine brake and the performance,” says Mats Morén. “At the same time, we’ve achieved the best fuel efficiency ever in a Volvo 13-litre engine. That’s something customers will experience in everyday operation, especially in more demanding driving.”
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