Swedish truck-maker Volvo has big, green plans for the biggest big truck show in Europe: the IAA show in Hanover.  Volvo Trucks will be featuring their green technologies at the show, including the brand new FMX construction truck and the latest OptiShift transmission.  Plus the new diesel electric hybrid driveline planned for the 2011 Volvo FM over-the-road (OTR) truck will also be there.

The new Volvo FMX construction truck features a new transmission system called the i-Shift, which simplifies driver shifting patterns while on-site.  The truck also features unique “construction software” which helps the dispatcher track and maintain trucks on sites.

The Volvo L180F will also be on hand, a wheel loader that is the world’s first truck to use OptiShift.  This transmission is the next generation of the i-Shift and cuts fuel consumption by up to 15%.  This can be a big savings in terms of both fuel and driver fatigue.

Of course, the Volvo FM OTR truck will also be there, featuring the company’s 13-liter diesel engine converted to run on methane (natural gas).  This truck has been on the roads of Europe for over a year and has received rave reviews from drivers and transport companies.  Volvo has not stated when the FM will come to the U.S. (if at all).

Last, but not least, Volvo will be showing off their much-anticipated diesel electric hybrid truck drive line, which will go into the FE Hybrid in 2011.  This will be the first 26-tonne hybrid in Europe.  The FE will use a 7L engine coupled to an electric motor and batteries.  It is expected to reduce fuel consumption by 30-35% for most applications.

Volvo Buses will also be there to show off the 7700 Hybrid, their diesel electric hybrid city bus that lowers fuel consumption by 35%.

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