Volvo is always at the forefront of vehicle technology. In some cases, this means revamping new Volvo models with the latest automotive advancements. Other times, it means creating a whole new mode of transportation altogether. Recently, Volvo helped facilitate a development that falls under the latter of the two.

Under the name, "The SARTRE (Safe Road Trains for the Environment) Project," Volvo has teamed up with a handful of prominent European companies to come up with a safe, environmentally-friendly alternative form of travel. The tested means of transportation: road trains. For those unfamiliar with this mode of mobility, road trains are comprised of platooned vehicles that are autonomous yet drive in tandem with a professional driver in the lead. Because the cars in a road train follow close behind one another, air drag is reduced and all vehicles involved save up to 20-percent of their energy. This makes the system inherently green.

In order to tack on safety to environmentally-friendly, Volvo and its partners must be vigilant in testing the SARTRE Project and putting the multiple vehicle platoon in real-life situations. Fortunately, that's exactly what they're doing. In fact, the program recently tested its first fleet comprised of a lead truck and three cars which drove autonomously at speeds up to 90-km/h. And what did they find? Success of course. Erik Coelingh, Technical Project Manager, says, "The aim is for the entire road train to be completed in autumn 2012."¹

While there is still some further development to be done before Europe sees this alternative mode of transportation, Lovering Volvo in Concord is excited to watch the progression. To learn more about the road trains or anything else brand-related, feel free to drop by 95 Manchester Street Concord, NH 03301 in person or contact one of our team members online.

Source: ¹https://www.media.volvocars.com/global/enhanced/en-gb/Media/Preview.aspx?mediaid=41738