Volvo Enhances VNL and VNR Trucks With Sustainable Materials

Volvo Trucks North America is continuing to strengthen its sustainability strategy by incorporating recycled and renewable materials into the production of its new VNL long-haul and VNR regional truck models. According to the company, the initiative aims to reduce the carbon footprint associated with heavy-duty truck manufacturing without compromising vehicle quality or performance.

The company announced that, since May, it has implemented a series of manufacturing changes that replace conventional components with alternatives containing high levels of domestically sourced recycled materials.

“Every component in a truck represents an opportunity to reduce environmental impact,“ said Peter Voorhoeve, president of Volvo Trucks North America.

Among the most significant updates are the front wheel well splash guards, which are now made with 75% post-industrial recycled plastic sourced in the United States, a change designed to help lower carbon emissions generated during the manufacturing process.

Inside the cab, Volvo has also expanded its use of recycled materials. The floor mats now contain up to 50% recycled content and are manufactured in Hampton, New Hampshire, using an on-site recycling process that reuses production waste and eliminates material waste. In addition, the seat back components now contain up to 75% recycled fibers.

Volvo’s sustainability efforts also extend to its premium interior finishes. On Ultimate trim models, the company has replaced traditional imitation wood accents with genuine ayous wood veneer sourced from responsibly managed forests certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC).

Volvo Expands Recycled Materials and Develops New Sustainable Components

Volvo’s sustainability strategy goes beyond its current truck models. The company plans to expand the use of domestically sourced recycled plastics to 44 different dashboard components while relying on U.S.-based supply chains to reduce emissions associated with material transportation.

In addition, Volvo’s engineering teams are developing new bio-based composites made from hemp and agricultural byproducts, as well as evaluating the use of ocean-bound plastics and recycled textiles for future truck generations.

Another key pillar of the company’s strategy is its “design for disassembly” approach, which focuses on making trucks easier to dismantle at the end of their service life so that high-value components can be recovered and reused, supporting a more circular economy within the transportation industry.

Through these initiatives, Volvo aims to reduce the environmental impact of manufacturing its heavy-duty trucks while advancing toward a more efficient and sustainable production process aligned with the transportation industry’s carbon reduction goals.