Volvo Trucks North America Inc. received top marks for design and technological innovation at the 2003 Challenge Bibendum.

The Volvo VN780 Technology Truck received the highest rating in its class -- and used the least energy -- during a test of energy consumption simulating overnight idling. A second Volvo VN displayed advanced emissions control technologies for heavy-duty diesels. Challenge Bibendum is one of the premier global events for advanced technology vehicles and was established by the Michelin Group as an objective way to bring together and test the best available technologies for environmentally positive vehicles. The annual event features vehicles from major manufacturers on three continents. This year’s competition was held late last month in Sonoma and San Francisco, California. This was the first year heavy-duty trucks participated in the competition.
The VN780 Tech Truck achieved an "A" rating in its category during the idling test by showing how drivers can maintain a comfortable environment in their truck, without using the engine. In many cases, trucks idle so their engines can provide power for vehicle heat, air conditioning or other comfort systems while the driver is resting or sleeping in the cab. This is an inefficient use of the engine, and results in additional emissions and fuel consumption. The test measured the amount of energy consumed by competing heavy-duty trucks during a 12-hour period, and converted it into an equivalent of gallons of diesel fuel consumed per hour.
The VN780 Tech Truck demonstrates how drivers can use other methods to produce the energy needed to power their on-board amenities, including shorepower (electricity from an outside source) and an efficient onboard generator.
Indeed, the VN780 Tech Truck has a number of advanced features to make a driver’s life more comfortable and productive, during their non-driving work and resting time. One example of these amenities is an automated climate-control system with the ability to run a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system on AC electrical power. The truck also has shower, tub and sink, plus an RV-style toilet. All of these features are intended to make the driver as well rested as possible for driving. An onboard electric water heater produces hot water for the system. The electrical system also provides power for other amenities, such as a refrigerator, onboard computer with wi-fi wireless Internet connection, in-dash DVD, and TV/VCR hookups.