Eco friendly automobiles are thought to be dull and boring by most, but on the contrary, they can be fun and fast. To prove this, Volvo, a prominent name in the car manufacturing business, is attempting to break the world speed record using its hybrid truck aptly named the ’Mean Green’.
The Mean Green was designed to be the fastest hybrid truck. Since innovation and technology are ingrained at the core of the automaker’s business, the car features a revamped version of Volvo’s hybrid drive system, the same system that powers hundreds of Volvo buses and trucks around the globe. It can even be found under the hood of London’s iconic double-decker buses.
The Mean Green features a highly tuned D16 engine along with a modified version of the company’s automated I-Shift gearbox. The hybrid truck uses electric motors and diesel and is capable of pumping out a massive 2,100 hp and almost 5,000 lb/ft of torque. Of course, it isn’t just the engine that gives the Mean Green its speed. Aerodynamics plays a crucial role in helping it achieve its top speed.
According to Mean Green’s driver and owner, Boije Ovebrink, the truck is like a champagne cork minus the sound effects. It makes a whistle for a few seconds until the diesel engine, which utilizes renewable liquid rosin diesel, starts to deliver.
The truck features a few modified versions of other Volvo components as well like a rear axle with a ratio of 1.85:1, Volvo North American VN Cab, Volvo I-Shift automated manual transmission, Volvo hybrid battery and a Volvo hybrid motor.
The Mean Green currently holds the title for speed records in the standing 500 meter, standing kilometer and flying kilometer. It will also attempt to reach speeds of over 260 kmph at Wendover Airfield in Utah to beat its own records.
Via: Volvotrucks
