Volvo is already known for its innovative work on four-wheeled new Volvo vehicles. However, the automaker also recognizes the detrimental affect mass volumes of automobiles have on the environment. That's why Volvo, along with a few European partners, is seeking to alleviate the auto industry's collective eco-footprint through the perfection of a safe and sustainable road train system.

What is a road train?, you ask. Think trucks, but longer. Much, much longer. Originally used to transport cargo, road trains consist of a lead truck followed by several trailers. Volvo-sponsored road trains of the future would replace cargo with people and trailers with autonomously driven vehicles. Essentially, Volvo and its collaborators are looking to create a system in which a handful of cars spaced no more than 19 feet apart, move simultaneously in a sort of automotive platoon.

Not only would the road trains be led by a professional truck driver and therefore be safer, they'd also be eco-friendly. Think about it. Several vehicles moving close behind one another significantly reduces air drag and consequentially, the amount of energy each car must put forth to operate. Less energy equals less fuel consumption and more savings. In fact, Volvo officials state that road trains reduce the amount of energy used by their composing parts by up to 20-percent.

At this point in time, Volvo hasn't released exact dates for when or where road train systems will be set in place. However, under The SARTRE Project (Safe Road Trains for the Environment), the automaker and its European partners have already successfully tested their first model. What's more, Volvo says it strongly hopes to have its first full train completely done by fall 2012.

To follow along with Volvo, The SARTRE Project and other brand initiatives, be sure to stay tuned to our Lovering Volvo in Meredith blog. Of course, you can always contact us online or stop by 251 Daniel Webster Highway Meredith, NH 03253 and ask us questions directly as well.