Volvo Cars Takes the Lead in Greening Ocean Transport

In a bid to address growing environmental concerns and respond to consumer demands for sustainability, manufacturers and shippers are collaborating with their carriers and logistics providers. Swedish manufacturer Volvo Cars has emerged as a trailblazer in this endeavor, announcing a significant shift towards renewable fuels for their ocean transport operations, effective from June 1.

Volvo Cars’ Chief Operating Officer and Deputy CEO, Javier Varela, emphasized that while renewable fuels are not the ultimate solution for mitigating CO2 emissions from ocean freight, they represent a practical step forward. Implementing these solutions now can yield substantial results as the industry awaits more advanced, long-term technological alternatives. Moreover, Volvo aims to inspire other automakers to take action, fostering greater demand for carbon-efficient ocean transport and establishing renewable fuels as a viable mid-term solution.

Collaborating with prominent logistics partners such as Maersk, Kuehne+Nagel, and DB Schenker, Volvo Cars will utilize renewable fuels for inbound container transports of production materials destined for their manufacturing plants, as well as for global spare parts distribution via ocean transport. This strategic transition is expected to lead to an immediate reduction of 55,000 tons of fossil CO2 emissions from intercontinental freight on an annual basis.

Volvo Cars’ initiative demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship, promoting a greener and more sustainable approach within the automotive industry. By taking proactive steps towards decarbonizing their operations, they set a positive example for others to follow, ultimately contributing to a cleaner and healthier planet.

Read more on The Maritime Executive here. 

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