The system by Volvo Trucks, which builds on the company’s existing I-Roll technology, will be available on Volvo FH and FH Aero models with 13-litre diesel engines from September 2025. According to Volvo, the function can cut fuel use and CO2 emissions by up to one per cent when combined with other efficiency measures.
The stop-start feature operates by monitoring road data and topography to identify upcoming downhill sections. When a downward slope is detected, the engine temporarily shuts off at speeds above 60 kilometres per hour, eliminating fuel consumption and tailpipe emissions during that period.
Fuel savings, however, are dependent on several factors including road conditions and ambient temperature, and represent an incremental gain rather than a major breakthrough in truck efficiency.
“As part of our decarbonisation strategy, we will continue to innovate to make our combustion engines even better and to reduce our impact on the environment,” said Jan Hjelmgren, head of product management at Volvo Trucks.
The announcement follows Volvo’s success in the 2025 Green Truck Award test with its FH Aero model, which incorporated aerodynamic improvements introduced alongside the new cab design in 2024.
The stop-start development forms part of Volvo Trucks’ wider environmental strategy, which combines improvements to conventional diesel engines with investments in renewable-fuel technologies, battery-electric vehicles and fuel-cell trucks. Commercial vehicle manufacturers are pursuing similar measures as operators face pressure to lower running costs and emissions, while the transition to alternative powertrains in the heavy-duty sector remains gradual.
