Volvo unleashes V-Pulse to meet emissions standards

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GREENSBORO, N.C. — Volvo Trucks North America has unveiled V-Pulse, a solution to the diesel emissions standards that are scheduled to go into effect in October 2002.

All Volvo trucks equipped with Volvo Power that are ordered by the fourth quarter of 2002 will utilize V-Pulse technology, insists the company.

Most domestic manufacturers of heavy-duty diesel engines will apply some form of Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) technology to meet 2002 emissions standards. The challenge has been to devise a way to re-circulate exhaust back into the engine without compromising fuel efficiency, weight and performance.

“Volvo has successfully leveraged our years of experience building advanced technology engines and vehicles to meet the emissions standards requirements,” says Frank Bio, director of marketing for Volvo Power. “Because of this integration, we have optimized the engine configuration for our vehicles … Volvo is able to optimize both the engine and chassis and will not have to make a dramatic change to meet the current ’02 requirements and guidelines.”

V-Pulse utilizes pressure pulses created by the exhaust valves; then re-circulates up to 30 per cent of the exhaust through the V-Pulse cooler and back into the inlet. By utilizing high pressure, modulating unit injectors, very clean and efficient combustion is achieved.

“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,” says Bio. Additionally, V-Pulse technology will not add significant weight to the existing Volvo 12-liter engine, the company insists.

The simplicity of V-Pulse will make the trucks easier to maintain — controlling cost over the life of the vehicle. By avoiding solutions that involve more expensive turbocharger related technologies, Volvo says its V-Pulse can be serviced using minimal changes in maintenance procedures and technical education.

V-Pulse will be supported by the company’s PRISM program that provides drivers, managers and technicians with diagnostic and repair support services that are fully integrated with the electronics of every Volvo truck worldwide.

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