CEO Anna Müller wants to pioneer sustainable power with Volvo Penta

Anna, what are your thoughts on Volvo Pentaʼs journey towards these goals?

“Our journey towards net-zero emissions by 2050 is both ambitious and challenging. Weʼve made notable progress, especially in reducing Scope 1 and 2 emissions. Energy improvements, the use of HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) for engine testing, and renewable electricity in our plants are major contributors here. To reduce fossil carbon dioxide (CO 2) from the use of our products (Scope 3), we offer several solutions to help our customers in reducing their CO 2 emissions. For example, all our combustion engines are adapted and approved for the use of HVO. We also have electromobility solutions available and industrialized for various industrial applications like material handling and special vehicles. Another example is the newly launched Volvo Penta IPS Professional platform which enables commercial vessels and yachts up to sixty meters to reduce CO2 emissions through lower fuel consumption. Weʼve also showcased marine hybrid solutions and battery energy storage solutions for applications like data centers and charging infrastructure for electric heavy-duty vehicles. Volvo Penta is committed to supporting our customers and their clients in achieving sustainability success and we invest significantly in developing products and solutions that help them reach their sustainability targets, which in turn helps us achieve our own Scope 3 targets.” Says Anna Müller.

What is Volvo Penta aiming for and how will you reach these targets?

“For Volvo Penta, achieving our targets requires multiple solutions. Weʼre pursuing three main routes: fossil-free and renewable fuels for combustion engines including hydrogen, hybrid battery-electric solutions, and fully battery-electric solutions. Weʼre also continuously improving existing technologies to reduce fuel consumption. Energy efficiency, both in fuel consumption and productivity improvements, is crucial to fulfilling our strategy and reaching our targets. Our goals are ambitious: by 2034 we aim for reduced CO 2 emissions by 40% from sold products, by 2040 we aim to achieve zero-emission from sold products, and by 2050 we aim to be a net-zero emissions company.”

What is key for Volvo Penta to succeed in achieving net-zero emissions by 2050?

“The key to our success is working closely with our customers and their customers, who are the users of machines and vessels, to ensure we develop effective solutions and optimize customer value. Being part of the Volvo Group is a significant advantage, allowing us to leverage innovation and experience in new technologies. However, we canʼt achieve these targets alone; it requires a collective effort from OEMs, end users, government bodies, infrastructure providers, and energy companies. As a major player, we have a responsibility to lead this transformation in line with our vision. We engage with several non-governmental organizations and authorities to make this transition a reality and contribute to the solution.”

Sustainability is more than environmental aspects. What else is the company doing in the areas of resources and people to become more sustainable?

“Within resources, weʼre focusing on conserving raw materials, water, and energy. We are expanding our remanufacturing range with full warranty and designing our products to be recyclable from the start. Since people are our greatest strength, a key focus for us is to ensure a safe, healthy, and inclusive work environment for our colleagues, both physically and psychologically. As a company, we are also committed to upholding social responsibility, including human rights throughout our value chain. Iʼm pleased to see the strong commitment within our company to contribute to a better world in terms of climate, resources, and people. Working closely with our customers, we will continue to innovate for the future and stay true to our vision: Pioneering sustainable power, productivity, and experience.”