Shell Starship 3.0 Driving Change in IndyCar

Building on the collaboration between Shell and IndyCar, the Shell Starship 3.0 will serve as the official transporter for the Pennzoil Tech Inspection trailer throughout the 2025 NTT IndyCar Series. “The truck’s not going to be on the track, but it’s going to do the job from track to track,” said Mueller.

Powered by the Cummins X15N natural gas engine and Shell Rotella natural gas engine oil, Starship 3.0 is the first natural gas-powered Class 8 truck in North America’s motorsports fleets. Its innovative features include a lightweight, aerodynamic carbon fiber body, a camera-based mirror system, and an optimized lightweight chassis.

Since 2023, Shell has also supplied 100% renewable racing fuel to the IndyCar series, demonstrating its commitment to sustainability within motorsports.

Validating Energy-Efficient Trucking

Mike Roeth, Executive Director of the North American Council for Freight Efficiency, called the Starship 3.0 “probably the most efficient, best natural gas, Class 8 truck in America.” The truck achieved fuel efficiency of approximately 9 mpg Diesel Gallon Equivalent (DGE) with a range of 890 miles during West Coast runs with renewable natural gas.

“Proving runs like this are vital to growing natural gas infrastructure,” added Mueller.

AI-Powered Sustainability Insights

To further its sustainability goals, Shell is rolling out an AI-driven emissions management platform developed with NTT Data. The tool provides real-time tracking and analysis of race operations and logistics emissions.

Kunal Koul of NTT underscored the platform’s potential, explaining how it shifts from using estimated data to real, actionable insights. “This system not only enables emissions tracking but also equips teams to make more data-driven decisions through intuitive dashboards and reports,” he said.

A United Drive Toward Sustainability

J. Douglas Boles, President of IndyCar and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, emphasized that sustainability initiatives shouldn’t compromise racing performance. By integrating cutting-edge technologies like Starship 3.0, Boles sees an opportunity to pair environmental responsibility with innovation.

Josef Newgarden, Team Penske driver and two-time IndyCar champion added, “In racing, you’re always pushing the limits of speed. We’re trying to put things on the absolute edge, but we’re trying to do it as efficiently as possible.”

Shell’s latest advancements underscore the company’s dedication to driving sustainable innovations in logistics and motorsports. With collective efforts from manufacturers, customers, and governments, the future of green freight networks and motorsports looks increasingly promising.

Source: Commercial Carrier Journal
Image Source: Commercial Carrier Journal/ Pamella De Leon

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Volvo Trucks’ Enduring Support

The American Trucking Associations’ Management Conference & Exhibition recently saw Volvo Trucks recommit to backing the ATA’s America’s Road Team. Established in 1986, this initiative is dedicated to acknowledging the significant role of truck drivers in economic support and improving quality of life. Since 2002, Volvo Trucks has been the sole sponsor of this esteemed program.

Spotlight on the 2025 Road Team Captains

Every two years, a select group of exemplary drivers is chosen to become captains of America’s Road Team. These captains, recognized for their impeccable safety records, driving expertise, and commitment to the industry, exemplify the pinnacle of professional standards. In 2025, they will have the unique opportunity to operate the cutting-edge Volvo VNL, after previewing it at the Volvo Customer Center in Dublin, Virginia, earlier this year.

These captains will travel nationwide to educate various audiences about road safety and the indispensable nature of the trucking industry.

Volvo Trucks’ Vision for Safety

“Our Road Team Captains have logged millions of accident-free miles; a testament to their dedication to safety, which aligns with our vision at Volvo Trucks of zero accidents—a future in which no Volvo Truck is the cause of an accident,” shared Peter Voorhoeve, president of Volvo Trucks North America. “These professional drivers have demonstrated that with safe driving practices, we can make the roads a safe place for trucks, passenger cars, and other road users like pedestrians and cyclists. The members of this outstanding group serve as champions and role models who represent what being a professional truck driver is all about.”

Innovative Contributions to the 2025 Campaign

Volvo Trucks is further supporting the 2025 campaign by donating a fully equipped Volvo VNL 860 sleeper. This advanced vehicle will be used to transport the ATA Interstate One mobile classroom during its nationwide tour. Designed to revolutionize heavy-duty trucking, the all-new Volvo VNL sets unprecedented safety standards.

“The all-new Volvo VNL is the truck designed to change everything, just like these captains are the ambassadors for change and constant improvement in their profession,” Voorhoeve added. “We are confident that the all-new Volvo VNL is the safest, most connected, and most fuel-efficient Class 8 truck ever built, making it the perfect partner for our America’s Road Team Captains. These men and women deserve our respect and recognition for all they do to deliver essential goods and materials safely and securely, day after day.”

With this continued partnership, Volvo Trucks reinforces its dedication to innovation, safety, and the recognition of those who drive progress in the trucking industry.

Source: FleetOwner

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