Westport Fuel Systems Inc. (Westport), a premier global company for the engineering, manufacturing and supply of alternative fuel systems and components, has announced that Volvo Car will launch the BiFuel version of its new V90 station wagon. This vehicle is based on the same engine technology as the Volvo V60 sports wagon, which recently won second place in the Best Environmental Car in Sweden - company car category.
This engine can run on either compressed natural gas (CNG)/biomethane or petrol and forms part of Volvo Car's Engine Architecture, which ranks as one of the best engine families in the world. It is expected to offer low emissions of 120g CO2 when run on CNG and 40g CO2 when 100% biogas is used. As well as showcasing excellent green credentials, the car will also feature a high performance 254 horsepower (hp) engine, 350NM torque and an eight speed automatic gearbox to ensure a world class driving experience.
"The Volvo V90 BiFuel will be an important model for us. It will primarily benefit our taxi fleet customers, and it will also be good for companies with an explicit environmental policy," said Fredrik Isakson, Manager Fleet Sales and Business Development at Volvo Car Sverige.
"Westport and Volvo Car are working together to provide customers with leading natural gas technology, great performance and ultimately a low emissions profile. By collaborating with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), like Volvo Car, we are able to develop vital technology solutions to reduce emissions and continue to meet demand for premium natural gas vehicles," said Nancy Gougarty, President and COO of Westport.
"The combination of Volvo Car's exemplary automotive engineering and Westport's advanced natural gas technology ensures that the V90 BiFuel will provide both a superior driving experience and excellent environmental benefits. The 254 hp engine makes it the most powerful CNG car on the market and, therefore, the natural choice for high performance green driving", said Anders Johansson, Managing Director, Westport Sweden.
Sales of the V90 BiFuel, which will supersede the Volvo V70, will start in Sweden in June 2016. Vehicle deliveries are expected to start in December 2016.
Adapted from press release by Francesca Brindle