(GREENSBORO) -- Volvo Technology of American, Inc. is set to develop a SuperTruck with the help of a $19 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy.  Researchers and engineers in Greensboro and Hagerstown, Md. will spend the next five years developing high-efficiency heavy-duty truck technologies aimed at moving more freight with less fuel.

“We are delighted to receive this SuperTruck award that builds upon an already strong relationship with the U.S. Department of Energy,” said Ron Huibers, Volvo Trucks senior vice president, sales and marketing. “Freight transportation plays a vital role in our daily lives and the strength of our nation, so it’s essential that we step up our efforts to create the best, most efficient heavy-duty truck solutions possible. This public-private partnership is an important step forward as we continue to expand our technology leadership.”

The R&D efforts will focus on improving truck aerodynamics and energy conversion efficiency. The transport and fuel efficiency improvements under SuperTruck will be developed in cooperation with university and supplier partners, according to a news released published on Monday.