Trucks
With this coming September marking the multi-award winning FH range’s 25th anniversary since launch - and as a nod to its heritage - this 460hp model is finished in the original 1993 UK launch colour of ‘Scarlet Red’.
Visitors to the show, which takes place at Hillhead Quarry, Buxton, will be able to inspect the Volvo FH 8x4 rigid chassis, which is fitted with a Wilcox tipping body. The 5,100mm wheelbase chassis is fitted with all-round steel parabolic spring suspension and the twin front axle capacity of 16-tonnes is complemented by a rear bogie capacity of 21 tonnes. Alcoa Dura-Bright alloy wheels provide a smart finishing touch and these are shod with Michelin tyres (XZY- front, X Works- rear.)
Powering the FH is Volvo’s D13K Euro-6 engine rated at 460hp. The straight six, overhead camshaft unit produces its maximum power between 1400 to 1800rpm and is backed by 2300Nm of torque between 900 and 1400rpm. Behind this is Volvos’; I-Shift Dual Clutch automated transmission system, which includes a Gearbox Retarder.
The SPO2812 is a 12-speed unit and I-Shift Dual Clutch enables seamless gear changes, using sports car technology that is totally unique in the heavy trucks marketplace. When conditions demand a lot of shifting, this gearbox really comes into its own. In fact, the heavier the transport and the tougher the conditions, the more it will gain. Rounding off the powertrain assembly are RTS2370A single reduction drive axles with a ratio of 3.09:1. The FH is fitted with a 330 litre diesel tank and a plastic Ad Blue reservoir with a capacity of 32 litres.
The flat-roofed FH Sleeper cab provides a roomy, comfortable driving environment with minimal effect on potential payload figures. Inside the driver benefits from optional heated and ventilated suspended seat and a swivelling passenger seat for rest periods.
Yet another world-class technical innovation from Volvo Trucks, VDS (Volvo Dynamic Steering) is also featured on this tipper, which at low speeds, makes steering effortless and precise, and takes away strain on the driver’s arms and shoulders. This means improved safety and reduced risk of occupational injury. Other interior packages present include; Drive++ and 1 Bed+, in addition to Media Pack with Navigation and Active Safety+ technology options.
During the last three years Volvo Trucks has launched a full range of innovative construction industry transport solutions, all of which are designed to optimise productivity, reduce downtime and enhance driver performance and comfort.
These include the class-leading, driver-friendly, automated 12-speed I-Shift gearbox with crawler gears, which is available for use with the latest Euro-6, 13-litre D13K in the Volvo FM, Volvo FMX, Volvo FH ranges and the 16-litre D16K engines in the Volvo FH16 range. This innovation is a world first for a new generation automated gearbox in a truck.
With the new crawler gears, the truck can drive at speeds as low as 0.5-2 km/h, which helps the driver and overall safety during precision manoeuvring when working on construction and Heavy Haulage duties. Alternatively, it is now possible to specify two reverse crawler gears to facilitate, precision slow speed manoeuvring at high gross weights.
Another option is the Volvo Tandem Axle Lift, which makes it possible for the driver to disengage and raise the second driven axle on a double-drive configuration truck while the truck is stationary and unloaded. This aids manoeuvrability and provides the possibility of reducing fuel consumption when the truck is driven unloaded. Driving with the second driven axle raised decreases the turning circle by approximately one metre, thus again improving manoeuvrability and reducing tyre-wear.
As in previous years, Volvo Trucks is sharing the Hillhead stand with sister companies, Volvo Construction Equipment and Volvo Penta, whose generator will provide power for the facilities there.
