Trucks

Volvo revamps heavy duty line up at global launch

Volvo Trucks has taken the wraps off an updated heavy-duty lineup, showcasing a range of aerodynamic and safety updates to the FH and FM, as well as revealing an entirely new flagship 17-litre engine platform. The FH range has also expanded with the addition of an "extended front" variant dubbed the FH-Aero available for the European market.

The D17 engine is equipped with a single efficient turbocharger that boosts engine responsiveness improving the driving experience. Volvo’s innovative patented wave piston design optimizes combustion and reduces emissions, while the new injection system ensures the best fuel economy, and the increased peak cylinder pressure enables high power output.

 

Power ratings for the Australian market are yet to be confirmed.

 

Volvo’s I-See technology has been refined to save energy and carbon emissions, using a cloud based topographic map to optimise driving and enabling more driving time in cruise control mode that can both save energy and give more relaxed driving.

 

Updated brakes with Volvo patented drag-free brake discs, pads and hubs, improving the braking capacity, reducing energy consumption and emissions.

 

All engines are available with 13 and 14-speed Crawler and Ultra-Low Crawler I-Shift AMT transmissions as well as the traditional 12-speed. The new FH16 600 also benefits from the option of a new low-drag I-Shift variant for highway applications.

 

Driver appeal, safety and efficiency are at the forefront of arguably the biggest revamp of the Volvo FH since the launch of the 4th generation FH platform in 2012.

 

Both the FH and FM cab have received significant aerodynamic improvements; however, the most noticeable feature is the addition of the optional Camera Monitoring System (CMS) which replaces the traditional left and right mirror assembly. CMS gives a wider field of view than a standard glass mirror and is able to shift that view accordingly as an articulated combination negotiates turns and intersections. An additional outcome is the aerodynamic and efficiency gains of not having mirror housings on the side of the cab.

  

The A-pillar mounted CMS screens can also be activated remotely from the sleeper for additional security while the driver is resting.

 

Inside the FH benefits from a revised audio system and the addition of as well as interior styling and branding updates.

 

The recent relaxation of European length regulations has also led to the development of the new FH Aero. An added 240mm has been added to the front air dam of the FH cab, extending the front to provide a significantly lower drag co-efficient.

 

“This latest iteration of the Volvo FH is the cleanest, most efficient, and most powerful truck we’ve offered Australia customers yet, says Martin Merrick, President and CEO, Volvo Group Australia. “With the Volvo FH having just celebrated 30 years of delivering unparalleled levels of safety, performance and efficiency It’s fitting that the revamped Volvo range has raised the bar in these areas once again.”

 

“I’m confident that the new D17 engine will be a game changer for both linehaul, regional and heavy haulage customers across this country,” Merrick continues, “This engine has been subjected to a brutal local testing program in some of the harshest conditions and some of the highest weights this country has to offer to ensure the uptime and productivity that Volvo Trucks customers have come to expect.”

  

“Regardless of driveline, whether ICE or BEV, the Volvo FH will continue to deliver efficiency, safety, power and comfort for Australian drivers and I for one will be very proud to see the first of these new trucks roll off our Wacol assemble line mid-2024.” 

For further information, please contact:

 

Matt Wood

Public Relations and Media Manager (Volvo Group Australia)

Mobile: +61 (0)436 681 117

matthew.wood@volvo.com

About Volvo Group Australia

 

Volvo Group Australia is responsible for Mack, Volvo truck brands within Australia, New Zealand, New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, East Timor and the South Pacific Islands. Mack and Volvo Trucks proudly carry the Australian Made certification for trucks built at the local Wacol factory in Brisbane. Volvo Group Australia is the sole authorised distributor for UD Trucks in Australia.

 

We provide complete transport solutions for professional and demanding customers, including complete solutions for financing and service. Over 1400 people are employed by Volvo Group Australia across the country, with over 80 suppliers also benefitting from local production. Volvo Group boasts the largest dealer network in Australia and New Zealand with service points across the country giving access to metropolitan and regional customers.

 

Volvo Group Australia is part of Swedish-based Volvo Group, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of trucks, buses, construction equipment and marine and industrial engines.