In this transformative period towards net-zero goals, material handling operations are at a critical juncture. The need to elevate performance and embrace sustainable practices is urgent and there is no silver bullet solution. Volvo Penta's multifaceted net-zero ecosystem helps customers navigate the complexities involved: securing uptime and productivity while providing a comprehensive support system across the value chain.

Multi-prong emissions reduction – electrification, alternative fuels, and fuel cell technology

When it comes to material handling operations in ports and terminals, there is simply no silver bullet for CO₂ reduction. Instead, achieving net-zero emissions requires a multipronged approach: an ecosystem that caters to all the stakeholders involved, and that combines different strands of expertise to find the best possible solutions.

Electrification and alternative fuels play a key role in making this transition not just possible, but an everyday reality. Material handling operations in ports and terminals are intense and complex, meaning that all of its applications – terminal tractors, reach stackers, RTG cranes, etc. – have to work smoothly, reliably, and sustainably too.

Volvo Penta's application-adaptable electrification platform is modular, scalable, and purpose-built to keep emissions to a minimum while ensuring uptime. It is designed to be compatible across different industries and applications. In a material handling context, that includes terminal tractors, RoRo tractors, forklifts, straddle carriers, to name a few.

Volvo Penta has a strong legacy designing and delivering reliable combustion engines that are homologated to meet and exceed emissions standards around the world (incl. stage V / Tier 4 final). Our dual-fuel engines mark the next progressive step towards net-zero, following the introduction of HVO; for several years, all Volvo Penta engines are approved to run on HVO.

Next-generation dual-fuel engines and collaborative development

Dual-fuel hydrogen-diesel engines run primarily on the renewable fuel source hydrogen. If hydrogen is not available, the Volvo Penta dual-fuel engine can run on diesel or HVO instead, thus ensuring uptime and stable material handling and port operations.

Volvo Penta's net-zero ecosystem is about much more than merely supplying OEMs and their customers with power to their equipment and applications. These solutions are realized through successful strategic, technological, and operational synergies:

1. Customer collaboration: We foster strong partnerships with our customers, leveraging their expertise and operations to jointly develop the right power-solutions fit. In our strong partnership ethos, we exchange knowledge and provide engineering insight and guidance, ensuring mutual learning and success.

2. Tech partnerships: In the development of our latest dual-fuel hydrogen-diesel engine, Volvo Penta is working in close collaboration with CMB.Tech to drive innovation and create the foundation for our next-generation combustion engines. This collaborative effort delivers a cost-effective and productivity-optimized solution that helps drive net-zero progress across industries.

3. Operator and customer support system: We try to be as close to our customers and their work as possible. There is simply no better way to understand their challenges, and then use those insights to develop the solutions that will make their operations safer, more efficient, and more sustainable. That goes for every industry we operate in.

Volvo Penta as a solutions and service provider

When needed, we aim to help OEMs and operators secure excellent service and support from Volvo Penta's global aftermarket network. Volvo Penta offers extended coverage, and we train OEM representatives and operators so that they can take proper care of their Volvo Penta engines. That way, they focus on their daily work and feel confident knowing that they are part of our service and support network.

Volvo Penta service technicians will not be the only ones authorized to work on our engine or solutions. In this sense, we are party agnostic. Our focus is to ensure that operations run smoothly, prioritizing the end customer's needs so that they can work safely, comfortably, and maintain uptime. This is our way of being a reliable solutions and service provider, and securing the best possible end-to-end experience for the customer.

If you are curious about Volvo Penta's net-zero power solutions, we hope to see you at TOC Europe 2023 in Rotterdam, June 13-15. We are always happy to discuss the needs of different companies, and how we can help meet them. If you plan on attending TOC Europe, come pay us a visit and ask us about what our solutions can do for you and your customers.

More information

Want to know more about Volvo Penta's net-zero ecosystem and our work with dual-fuel hydrogen-diesel engines, electric drivelines or material handling operations in ports and terminals? Feel free to contact me at david.hamilton@volvo.com. Make sure to also read related articles on how connected engines benefit port operations, and our ambition to become a zero-emission solution provider.