Through Volvos global Academic Partner Program, which began last year and also includes alliances with schools in Sweden and France, Penn State students will have the chance to shape next-generation technologies for the global automaker.
Our goals will be to help Volvo Group develop new engine and vehicle technologies to improve efficiency and reduce emissions, while training the next generation of automotive engineers, says Andre Boehman, PSU professor of fuel science and material science and engineering.
Volvo recognized the potential for a partnership with PSU because of a large number of alumni within Volvos engineering and management teams. In addition, Volvos companies include Mack Trucks, which has significant operations in PA in Allentown, MIddletown and Macungie and previously worked with Penn State students on a variety of projects in the areas of combustion research, energy recovery, hybrid vehicle design optimization, vehicle dynamics, intelligent transport systems, energy storage systems and safety.
Under the new agreement, PSU and Volvo will cooperate in the areas of diesel combustion and efficiency, alternative fuels, intelligent transportation systems and vehicle and driver safety systems. The PSU Pennsylvania Transportation Institutes test track for heavy duty testing and Penn States expertise in engine research will also play a part.
Source: Andre Boehman, Penn State University
Writer: Joe Petrucci