New Volvo FH set to redefine premium trucks 06 September 2012

The latest incarnation of Volvo's flagship FH truck range has now been officially launched, with the company saying it is "built with the driver in mind and a focus on improving operator profitability."

One of the ways this ma be achieved is through Volvo's new I-See transmission technology, which is designed to reduce fuel consumption by managing gear ratios and engine and brake functions in anticipation of hilly terrain.

I-See, a software package developed by Volvo Trucks for its I-Shift automatic gearbox, stores information about routes as the truck drives along, using tilt sensors on the transmission.

"So, the next time the truck uses the same route, I-See operates the accelerator, gears and brakes to ensure that progress is as economical as possible," explained Claes Nilsson, president of Volvo Truck, at the unveiling.

Volvo insists that I-See will help operators achieve a 5% saving in fuel, while the adoption of Volvo's new fuel package is also promising similar additional savings.

The latter package includes training and monthly assistance so that drivers permanently change their style on the basis of knowledge about driving for maximum fuel-efficiency.

As for the new FH itself, the truck will debut Volvo's brand new Euro 6 engine, I-Torque.

Full production of the engine is slated to begin in late 2013, and Volvo Trucks is promising additional fuel savings of up to 4%, compared with current Euro 5 powertrains.

"Together with I-See and other improvements, the result is that fuel consumption can drop by up to 10%," stated Nilsson.

"For the average truck, this can equate to a saving of up to 4,100 litres of fuel a year," he added.

However, there is more to the FH truck story. Operators should also be interested in its improved handling and safety, compared to the current FH model.

Improvements are thanks in part to a new independent front suspension design, albeit on left-hand-drive vehicles only initially.

Claimed to be the first heavy truck to use such a system, Volvo's new FH is promising a smoother ride quality, as well as greater stability from the new system, which is coupled with a rack and pinion steering setup.

Author
John Challen

Related Companies
Volvo Group UK Ltd

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