Volvo Trucks North America says its position as an integrated manufacturer will allow it to meet October 2002 emissions standards without making dramatic changes.

All Volvo trucks equipped with Volvo Power ordered by the fourth quarter of 2002 will use "V-Pulse" technology.
Like most other engine manufacturers, Volvo is working with exhaust gas recirculation (EGR). The company has been able to keep its existing engine platform without the need for after-treatment. V-Pulse uses pressure pulses created by the exhaust valves; then re-circulates up to 30 percent of the exhaust through the V-Pulse cooler and back into the inlet. By using high-pressure, modulating unit injectors, very clean and efficient combustion is achieved, according to the company.
Volvo officials say the new technology does not compromise the engine's fuel efficiency, weight or performance.
"Our position as a fully integrated manufacturer has allowed us to go beyond simply meeting emissions standards requirements," said Frank Bio, director of marketing for Volvo Power. "With V-Pulse we have devised a solution that not only runs cleaner, but is also simpler to maintain while optimizing fuel economy, performance and maintenance costs over the life of the engine."
By avoiding solutions that involve more expensive turbocharger related technologies, V-Pulse can be serviced using minimal changes in maintenance procedures and technical education, claims the company.