Volvo Trucks is a world leader in medium- and heavy-duty electric trucks, with eight battery-electric models in its portfolio
Piercing the air with the least possible aerodynamic resistance while protecting the environment without compromising performance. These, in short, are the two goals Volvo Truck is pursuing with two different projects, destined to merge into a single commercial offer starting in the first half of 2026. That period will see the launch of a new long-haul electric truck powered by batteries, allowing the company to continue its journey toward a zero-emissions 2040. This target is pursued today through a three-path technological approach: battery-electric motors, fuel-cell electric motors, and internal combustion engines running on renewable fuels such as green hydrogen, biogas, or HVO fuels (hydrotreated vegetable oils).
The new truck, called “FH Aero Electric”, will have a gross weight of 48 tons with a payload capacity close to that of a conventional diesel truck, a result made possible by the presence of an additional drive axle in 6×2 configuration. This allows more batteries to be stored on board without compromising balanced weight distribution on the ground. Up to eight battery packs can be installed, for a total capacity of 780 kWh, ensuring a range of up to 600 kilometers. Thanks to the onboard MCS (Megawatt Charging System), recharging from 20% to 80% capacity can be completed in just 40 minutes—the mandatory rest time for truck drivers under European regulations. This makes it possible to use the “FH Aero Electric” for long-distance routes that require short turnaround times.
This goal is further supported by new transmission technology—the so-called e-axle, which creates extra space for higher onboard battery capacity—and by aerodynamic studies that led to the development of the Aero cab. This cab extends 24 cm beyond the baseline version, refined through wind tunnel testing, and features airflow stabilizers placed at the upper corners next to the windshield. Thanks to a carefully designed scheme of small oblique blades, the stabilizers control airflow around the cab’s corners—critical points for aerodynamics. A dedicated camera-based monitoring system and the use of small movable blades allow airflow to be controlled on a micro scale, creating a macro-level effect.
While the cab’s airflow stabilizers improve aerodynamics at the vehicle’s front, they also create better conditions for two further upgrades: side fenders extended by 50 mm to reduce the gap between cab and trailer, and redesigned chassis skirts to better align with the rear wheel arches. These three new features complement one another according to the principle of 1+1 = 3, meaning that the overall positive impact is greater than the sum of the benefits of each component.
In fact, Volvo Trucks has applied the same airflow control techniques used in aircraft, race cars, and wind turbines to develop this innovative cab. Its presence generates efficiency gains of up to 7% compared to a conventional Volvo Truck, with corresponding fuel savings.
Currently a Global Leader in Electric
Volvo Trucks is the world leader in medium- and heavy-duty electric trucks, with eight battery-electric models in its portfolio. Volvo’s wide product range enables electrification of urban and regional distribution, construction, waste management, and now long-haul transport as well. Series production began in 2019, and so far, more than 5,000 electric vehicles have been delivered to customers in 50 countries worldwide.
Title: Volvo Truck Fh Aero Electric
Translation with ChatGPT
