Volvo Group and SSAB have unveiled an autonomous loader made of fossil-free steel, claimed to be the world’s first vehicle made from that material. Manufactured at Volvo Construction Equipment’s facility in Braås, Sweden, this is said to be “just the start” as a few more will be produced in 2022 with mass production set to follow.
This machine is a load carrier for use in mining and quarrying and is built using a new fossil-free steel from SSAB. Volvo’s CEO Martin Lundstedt has already said that this new machine is a first step in incorporating this new steel in all of their products and components to help reach their goal of being completely carbon neutral by 2040.
Along with the electrification of its vehicles and machines, Volvo adds that it is determined to reduce the carbon footprint of its entire supply chain and this latest innovation is one step forward on this path.
Lindqvist says that this first machine is a true milestone in proving that it is possible to find carbon free alternatives and working together that transition is possible and brings results while ensuring high quality fossil-free steel.
Source: Aggregates Business Read The Article
PSR Analysis: We already knew about Volvo’s engagement to be completely carbon neutral by 2040, and with this we most likely think about the engines and the drive train. This new initiative shows that not only are there more ways to reach this goal but that they are really analysing all the different elements that come together to manufacture their products.
Although this new steel is very interesting and promising it is still some ways away, projected to be mass produced and available on the market in 2026. This new technology has the potential to change the way we think of our materials and could be adopted by many manufacturers. At this stage, there are still some questions and tests that need to be met, but this really has the potential to be a significant change in the way our industry operates. PSR
Christopher Bamforth is Analyst, European Operations, for Power Systems Research
