Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) will explore holistic net zero innovations for the construction industry together with building materials provider CRH after both companies have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Volvo Group.
As part of the MoU, Volvo CE will take on the responsibility of next-generation technology deployment and the scaling up of technology and operational efficiency for the off-road segment in an attempt to reduce carbon emissions while maintaining productivity levels.
While it is not yet determined which solutions will be included in the scope, it is likely to involve vehicle electrification and charging infrastructure to reduce transport emissions, productivity and sustainability services, and the deployment of low-carbon fuels for both on-road and off-road equipment.
Volvo CE already has a collaboration with CRH spanning many years, resulting in the handover of North America's first machine made using fossil-free steel, a Volvo A30G articulated hauler. It is now operating at Pennsy Supply, a CRH company in North America.
Another partnership recently saw the two companies collaborate in a low carbon roads event where CRH company Tarmac put to work three zero-emission Volvo CE machines on the maintenance of a highway in Durham, U.K. The L120H Electric Conversion wheel loader, L25 Electric compact wheel loader, and EC230 Electric excavator were tested over three separate days.
"At CRH, we're innovating for a low-carbon future and with deep expertise in sustainable transport and infrastructure solutions. Volvo Group is a natural strategic partner for CRH and this collaboration is an important step in our shared commitment to decarbonizing our businesses," said Eunice Heath, Chief Sustainability Officer, CRH.
The two companies share ambitious sustainability efforts. Volvo CE is targeting 35 percent fully electric sales by 2030 and aiming to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions across its entire value chain by 2040. CRH meanwhile is targeting a 30 percent reduction in group-wide emissions by 2030 and to become a net-zero business by 2050.
Other Volvo Group businesses participating in the partnership include Renault Trucks, which has developed the first fully electric concrete mixer in the U.K. together with Tarmac; Volvo Trucks, which introduced the first Volvo FM electric truck in France on behalf of CRH company Eqiom; and Mack Trucks.
