Volvo Trucks North America announced that it will apply for certification of its CARB-24 Omnibus compliant engine. The OEM added that it expects the new engine meet the California Air Resources Board’s 2024 emissions standards and be available to order in the near future.

The engine is designed to obtain a certification at the 0.05g NOx rating with reduced particulate matter (PM) emissions.

Upon successful certification, deliveries of all new VNL and VNR model trucks with CARB-24 Omnibus compliant engines are expected to begin in the fourth quarter of this year.

This new engine continues Volvo's ambition towards zero emissions in heavy-duty transportation by 2040, the company said.

Lower Emissions, Enhanced Fuel Efficiency

The engine will be built on the new Volvo D13 VGT (Variable Geometry Turbo) engine platform, which was launched last month at TMC. Volvo Trucks was the first North American OEM to launch a truck with a 24-volt electrical architecture.

Once certified, customers will be able to order the CARB-24 Omnibus compliant engine in the all-new Volvo VNL and VNR models, with expected available configurations of 425 HP/1750 lb. ft. torque or 455 HP/1850 lb. ft. torque. 

In addition to less NOx and PM, the new D13 VGT engine will enhance fuel efficiency through several innovations. Volvo said this is thanks to its shorter seven-wave piston for improved combustion, a longer connecting rod to reduce friction, a precision needle control valve for optimized fuel flow, and a variable displacement oil pump to minimize parasitic losses. 

The improvement in fuel efficiency also is expected to have a direct and significant impact on CO2 reduction.

Volvo Trucks’ new engine will feature an advanced emission control system, including a fully serviceable linear exhaust aftertreatment system (EATS) and an integrated 48-volt heater used during startup and low-load situations to achieve the stringent ultra-low NOx targets. Each EATS component is designed for individual servicing or replacement, minimizing waste and maximizing operational lifespan.

This new engine complements Volvo Trucks’ earlier CARB-24 engine launch for the legacy VNL and VNR models. 

CARB’s Omnibus regulations aim to reduce NOx emissions by 75% and PM by 50% from heavy-duty on-road engines for engine model years 2024 through 2026 — compared to current U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards. 

"To help customers successfully navigate evolving regulations, Volvo has developed an engine that is intended to meet both EPA and CARB requirements,” said Johan Agebrand, director of product marketing, Volvo Trucks North America. 

“We continue to invest in powertrain and vehicle advancements that support our sustainability goals and our commitment to environmental stewardship. The Volvo VNR Electric continues to lead the Class 8 battery electric truck market in North America with over 40 percent market share and continue investments in developing other zero- and near-zero tailpipe emissions technologies.”