Volvo Trucks launches four new heavy-duty trucks

Volvo Trucks has introduced four new heavy-duty trucks, which will come to South Africa in the fourth quarter of this year.

The trucks have a strong focus on the driver environment, safety and productivity. “We are really proud of this big forward-looking investment. Our aim is to be our customers’ best business partner by making them even more competitive and by helping them to attract the best drivers in an increasingly tough market,” says Roger Alm, president of Volvo Trucks. The four heavy-duty trucks; Volvo FH, FH16, FM and FMX, represent about two thirds of Volvo Trucks’ deliveries.

An expected growing demand for transport is putting pressure on the availability of skilled drivers worldwide. In Europe, for example, estimates show that around 20 percent of all driver jobs are vacant. To help customers recruit and retain the best drivers, Volvo Trucks has focused strongly on developing the new trucks to make them safer, more efficient and more attractive working tools for qualified drivers. 

“Drivers who handle their truck safely and efficiently are an invaluable asset to any transport company. Responsible driving behaviour can help reduce CO₂ emissions and fuel costs, as well as help reduce the risk of accidents, injury and unplanned downtime. Our new trucks will help drivers work even more safely and productively and give our customers stronger arguments when competing to attract the best drivers,” continues Alm.  

The various truck models in Volvo Trucks’ range are available with many different cab models and can be optimised for a wide range of applications. In long-haul trucks the cab is often the driver’s second home. In regional transport, trucks often serve as a mobile office, while in construction the trucks are robust, practical work tools.

Therefore, visibility, comfort, ergonomics, noise level, manoeuvrability and safety were key focal points when developing all the new truck models. The truck exterior has also been upgraded to reflect the new trucks’ properties and create an attractive overall design.

New cab, offering more space and improved visibility

The new Volvo FM and Volvo FMX have a new cab, as well as many of the same instrument display functions as their larger Volvo counterparts. Their interior volume has been increased by up to one cubic metre, providing better comfort and more working room. The visibility is now even better, due to larger windows, a lowered door line and new mirrors.

Efficient engines and alternative drivelines

In many markets, the Volvo FH and Volvo FM are available with the Euro-6 gas-powered LNG engine that offers fuel efficiency and performance on par with that of Volvo’s equivalent diesel trucks, but with a far lower climate impact.

The gas engine can run on either biogas, which cuts CO₂ emissions by up to 100 percent, or natural gas which reduces CO₂ emissions by up to 20 percent when compared with Volvo’s equivalent diesel trucks. This relates to emissions from the vehicle during usage, known as tank to wheel.