The new Euro VI product was launched in Hong Kong during the Volvo Ocean Race stopover on 25 January, with Volvo promising improved fuel efficiency, lower emissions and lower operating costs.
The B8L, three-axle double-deck city bus chassis replaces the B9TL.Powered by Volvo’s D8K engine, the B8L delivers 345bhp and 1,400Nm of torque between 1,200 and 1,600rpm, and is equipped with a fully automatic ZF 6AP1600C transmission.
The 8-litre engine features common rail technology and, says Volvo, more auxiliaries powered electrically than ever before.
David Mead, Volvo’s VP for Asia Pacific, says the driveline has been simplified in response to customer input.
“Key to the new design is the direct drive layout with the 8-litre engine and automatic transmission designed to be in-line. This provides a more efficient driveline sure to set new standards for fuel efficiency in this segment,” Mead predicts.
The B8L is also lighter, has a tighter turning circle, and new axles and suspension.
Extended service intervals, use of common Volvo Group spare parts and revised service regimes allow for a reduction in the overall cost of maintenance, says the manufacturer. Coupled with the fuel savings already proven in vehicle trials, the total cost of owning a Volvo B8L will be lower than for previous models, it says.