Volvo Trucks says the bodybuilding process for its vehicles can now be shortened by up to 14 days, thanks to chassis-unique 3D drawings which allow the chassis and bodywork to be designed in parallel.
Complex bodywork typically results in longer lead times for customers but, says Volvo, the process is quicker if the bodywork can be built at the same time as the truck.
Volvo's 3D drawings are now available for bodybuilders via an online database, providing detailed information on chassis dimensions.
The drawings show how the chassis will look when complete, including detail such as rear axle position, propeller shaft height and wiring. Bodybuilders can zoom in on specific details, spin the truck around and view it from every angle.
"The major advantage of 3D drawings is that they allow for a parallel workflow in which the chassis and the bodywork can be produced simultaneously," says Tor Hesselgren, from Volvo's bodybuilder development department.
"Put simply, the bodybuilder doesn't need to wait for the truck to be finished to find out crucial information about the chassis."
