In order to minimise carbon emissions in the construction industry, Volvo Group and Heidelberg Materials have signed a collaboration agreement to explore and develop ways to meet loading and hauling demands with the use of electric trucks and related services.

Beginning this year, the cooperation will see the implementation of many of Volvo Group’s specialised electric product and service solutions throughout the majority of Heidelberg Materials’ Northern European facilities. The goal is to encourage the industry to develop solutions for transport and loading equipment that emit no emissions. Approximately 8% of the carbon emissions on the earth are attributable to the cement and concrete industry. To achieve net-zero carbon emissions throughout its value chain, Heidelberg Materials must find methods to lessen its influence on the environment.

Land-based transportation contributes a total of 6% of the carbon footprint of the value chain at Heidelberg Materials Northern Europe. Up to 200,000 tonnes of pollutants might be cut from the region’s yearly emissions with the electrification of the fleet. Additionally, the urban environment and working environment are improved and made quieter by electric cars.

As part of the arrangement, Volvo Group will implement its emission-free solutions at several Heidelberg Materials sites and quarries, including a combination of electric vehicles, machines, and productivity services. The recently released 20-ton wheel loader L120H Electric Conversion from Volvo Construction Equipment is one example of the machinery that Heidelberg Materials will use. With low exhaust emissions and nearly silent operation, this machine also helps operators when doing inside work.

To determine which emission-free vehicle technologies and charging infrastructure solutions can best meet Heidelberg Materials’ needs, a six-month feasibility study will be conducted in 2023. This comprehensive research offers a one-of-a-kind chance to design, develop, and implement a comprehensive CO2 reduction programme across the operations’ loading and transport activities. A pioneering project in our sector, the partnership between Volvo and Heidelberg Materials has the potential to considerably advance the decarbonization of our whole value chain in Northern Europe. We are both looking forward to collaborating to find and put into practise cutting-edge ideas for a rapid climate transition in the building industry.