Our latest Outpacing Change episode takes us to Gotenburg, Sweden and an insightful discussion with Volvo Trucks Director of Environment and Innovation, Lars Martensson, and the innovative world of electric, autonomous and connected freight solutions aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of the logistics sector and improve road safety.    

Quality, safety and environmental care are three themes that have been synonymous with the Volvo brand since its inception in 1927, and today the company remains razor focused on their importance, “I work with what is fun and what is important. Environment is what is really important, while fun is obviously innovation,” states Volvo Trucks, Director of Environment and Innovation Lars Martensson, “In my role I primarily think about climate and circularity.”

Volvo Trucks' commitment to innovation in creating electric, autonomous, and connected trucks, which not only advance the industry but also significantly reduce the environmental impact of freight transport is central to Martensson’s work where his focus on developing sustainable technologies steers the company's dedication to environmental stewardship and its leading role in moving towards a more sustainable future.

In the episode, Lars emphasises the concept of circularity as a longstanding practice at Volvo Trucks that is becoming even more pertinent today, while discussing the company's approach to integrating recycled materials into new trucks, ensuring longevity, and enabling the remanufacturing of parts. The synergy between different branches of Volvo, and across the industry, is presented as a critical factor in driving forward these environmental initiatives.

The power of partnership and collaboration in achieving rapid change is a strong theme in Outpacing Change episodes and is critical too at Volvo Trucks. Lars mentions the importance of working together with suppliers, customers, transport buyers like Amazon and IKEA, and energy companies to implement new technologies and ensure access to green energy and infrastructure. This collaboration is viewed as essential to meeting climate goals and adhering to the Paris Agreement, and Volvo Trucks positions itself as a leader in fostering these necessary alliances. “Our mantra in a way is that partnership is the new leadership,” Lars concludes. 

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