Volvo Trucks has unveiled an improved lineup, showcasing a range of aerodynamic and safety updates to the FH and FM as well as a new 17-litre engine.
Driver appeal, safety and efficiency are at the forefront of arguably the biggest revamp of the Volvo FH since the launch of the fourth generation FH platform in 2012.
Both the FH and FM cabs have also received significant aerodynamic improvements. However, the most noticeable feature is the addition of the optional Camera Monitoring System 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.
Another 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.
In addition, the FH range has expanded with the addition of an ‘extended front’ variant dubbed the FH-Aero, available for the European market.
At the global launch in Sweden, an entirely new flagship 17-litre platform was revealed.
The D17 engine is equipped with a single efficient turbocharger that boosts engine responsiveness, improving driver experience.
Volvo’s innovative patented wave piston design optimises 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 Group Australia President and CEO, Martin Merrick, is confident the new D17 engine will be a game changer for linehaul, regional and heavy haulage customers across Australia.
“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,” he said.
“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.”
Volvo’s I-See technology has been refined to save energy and carbon emissions, using a cloud-based topographic map to optimise driving and enable more driving time in cruise control mode that can both save energy and give more relaxed driving.
Updated brakes are also included 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 will also benefit from the option of a new low-drag I-Shift variant for highway applications.
Inside, the FH features a revised audio system and the addition of interior styling and branding upgrades.
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,” Merrick said.
“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.”
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