Volvo has announced that it will stop building and selling diesel-fueled vehicles next year as part of its commitment to becoming a fully electric car manufacturer by 2030. The decision comes as no surprise, as Volvo had previously indicated its plans to phase out diesel engines due to increasing costs of emissions technologies.
According to Volvo Chief Executive Jim Rowan, the move away from diesel is driven by two key factors. Firstly, electric powertrains are considered superior to combustion engines, as they produce less noise, vibration, and servicing costs, while also emitting zero tailpipe emissions. This aligns with Volvo’s vision of a cleaner and more sustainable future.
The second reason behind Volvo’s departure from the diesel market is the urgent need to address climate change. Rowan stresses the importance of industry and political leaders taking decisive action to combat climate change. Volvo is committed to doing its part and encourages other automakers and global leaders to do the same.
The shift away from diesel engines has been rapid for Volvo. In 2019, the majority of cars sold by the company in Europe were diesel-powered. However, driven by changing market demand, stricter emission regulations, and a focus on electrification, Volvo now reports a significant shift in sales. The majority of cars sold in Europe are now electrified, either fully electric or plug-in hybrid models.
Volvo’s decision to stop producing diesel-fueled vehicles is significant in the context of the automotive industry’s transition towards electric mobility. It serves as a reminder that gasoline vehicles may soon face a similar fate, as car manufacturers worldwide respond to the pressing need to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change.
Definitions:
– Diesel engine: An internal combustion engine that operates by compressing air and spraying fuel into the combustion chamber to ignite the fuel-air mixture.
– Electric powertrain: The system responsible for generating and transmitting power in an electric vehicle, typically consisting of an electric motor and a battery.
– Combustion engine: An internal combustion engine that burns fuel to create mechanical energy.
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– Volvo’s commitment to electric vehicles: [Insert source here]
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