Stop-start technology has been in passenger cars for decades now, but turning off the engine is less valuable and convenient in trucks. Volvo has found a way, however, by integrating it into its I-Roll technology, saving around 1 percent in fuel consumption.
Stop-start usually activates when cars are at a standstill, for example, in heavy traffic or at a red light. The newest (mild-)hybrid vehicles also deactivate the engine when coasting, or when the electric motor has enough power to keep the speed up.
Industry-first for heavy trucks
It’s not as practical in heavy trucks, because they stop less, but also because truck engines take more time to fire up, and because they power the air brakes.
However, Volvo Trucks has found a way to turn off the engine without compromising safety or comfort. The newest generation of its I-Roll technology, which already decouples the engine when coasting on flat roads or rolling downhill, now integrates stop-start.
1 percent in fuel savings
This means that, when a downward slope is identified via the navigation and the I-See safety technology, the engine will turn off at speeds above 60 km/h. According to Volvo, this can save up to 1% of fuel consumption, which also reduces CO2 emissions.
The new feature will be offered on the Volvo FH and FH Aero heavy trucks with a 13-liter diesel engine, and customers can order it from September 2025. In addition to its wide range of battery-electric models, Volvo Trucks continues to optimise its diesel trucks, like the FH Aero, with a more streamlined body to save on fuel.
