Volvo Group has taken a significant step towards becoming a climate-neutral company by 2040 by expanding its fossil-free sourcing efforts in India. After initiating the sourcing of Fossil Free Castings from India in 2022, Volvo has now extended its commitment to include additional components, marking a new milestone in its sustainability journey.

This expansion is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by 13,000 tonne annually for Volvo Group Trucks, underscoring the company’s commitment to a greener supply chain. Volvo Group has partnered with two key suppliers in Chennai—Rane (Madras)and Madras Engineering Industries (MEI)—to develop these fossil-free components.

In collaboration with Rane (Madras), Volvo Group has created fossil-free tie rods and linkages, which are critical for steering the wheels of Volvo trucks. These components are produced using 100 per cent renewable energy throughout the supply chain, eliminating the use of fossil fuels and hazardous materials. The sustainable production process also incorporates fossil-free steel and electric vehicles for material transport.

Additionally, Volvo Group has teamed up with MEI to produce fossil-free ferrous castings, another vital component in vehicle manufacturing. These castings, which are designed to withstand significant stress and fatigue, are manufactured using 100 per cent renewable energy and 100 per cent metallic scrap, without the use of virgin materials like pig iron. The process is landfill-free and free of toxic substances, resulting in fully recyclable products.

The introduction of these fossil-free tie rods and linkages is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by 600 tons annually for Volvo. If similar components are produced by other supply partners, the emissions reduction could reach several thousand tons per year. MEI’s fossil-free castings are projected to cut CO2 emissions by 12,400 tonnes annually, with the potential for an even greater impact if adopted by additional suppliers in the industry.

These new components from Indian suppliers are set to be introduced in the first quarter of 2025. The products have already received GreenCO and GreenPro certifications from the Confederation of Indian Industry’s (CII) Green Products & Services Council, confirming their compliance with global sustainability standards and adherence to country-specific policies.

Volvo Group’s ongoing collaboration with its Indian supply partners demonstrates a commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and fostering sustainable practices across its global operations, paving the way for a climate-neutral future.