truck technology
VOLVO DELIVERS D
ESPITE THE frustrations stemming from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, Volvo Group Australia (VGA) has swum against the tide, embarking on what it states as its biggest launch ever with a new range of FM, FMX, FH and FH16 models – just in time for Christmas. VGA states that all new Volvo models will be built at its production facility in Wacol, Queensland. According to Volvo, the new range has been designed with the driver in mind, pointing to “unparalleled levels of comfort, driveability and safety”. “Long haul drivers don’t just drive our trucks; they often live in them, however even in an urban distribution environment drivers also need a safe comfortable workplace,” states VGA vice president of sales, Tony O’Connell. “For some it is the modern office with every convenience at hand, for others it is also a home. “We all know how hard it can be to attract drivers in this country. Any driver would be proud to find
themselves behind the wheel of any truck in our new range.” The new Volvo FH will have the option of Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions levels across the range in both 13-litre and 16-litre capacities as well as a complementary range of horsepower options. VGA points out that its new FM comes with an all-new cab as well as Euro 5 and 6 options in 11- and 13-litre engine capacities. It adds that emissions, efficiency and safety unsurprisingly feature highly across its line-up, in addition to a significant focus on the driver environment.
Crash test strength Volvo states that its truck cabs across the range meet the world’s most stringent crash test rating – the Swedish BOF10 cab strength test. In addition, VGA notes that visibility has been improved by more than 10 per cent on the Volvo FM, as well as the Volvo FMX, which now features similar lines
to the Volvo FH cab with a larger windscreen, slimmer A-pillars, slim line mirrors, and a lower door line. To minimise blind spots, the new passenger corner camera activates when the left indicator is used. The corner camera can also be activated at the push of a button, enabling the driver to check the area when required. The camera image is displayed on the 9-inch (23cm) dash-mounted touch-screen display. This display is said to be able to handle input from up to eight cameras. VGA explains that LED headlights on the FH and FH16 models feature the Adaptive High Beam function, which partially dips the high beam when the headlights or taillights of another vehicle are detected ahead of the truck. This means that the area surrounding the vehicle can remain illuminated by the partial high beam, increasing visibility, without blinding other road users. The system is also said to be able to detect the lights of smaller vehicles such as motorcycles and cyclists. Other active safety features being spruiked include Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) for speeds down to zero km/h, plus Hill Descent Control that automatically activates the wheel brakes when extra brake force is needed to maintain constant downhill speed. VGA says the electronically controlled Brake System (EBS), which is a prerequisite for safety features such as Collision Warning with Emergency Brake and Electronic Stability Control, comes as standard on the new truck. Volvo Dynamic Steering, with safety systems Lane Keeping Assist and Stability Assist also available as an option.
Cab comfort VGA expects drivers to welcome the Volvo FM and FMX interior cab space, which has been increased by up to one cubic metre, giving drivers more room to move as well as additional storage space. Day cab models also boast a 40 per cent increase in storage space. As far as ergonomics go, a newly designed I-Shift transmission selector and simplified switch gear across the dashboard is reported to add to ease of use and comfort from the driver’s seat. Inside, an all-new 12-inch (30cm) instrument panel minimises driver distraction with clean, clear digital instrumentation while a new larger touch screen display with a simplified menu is now claimed to be
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ownerdriver.com.au
25/11/2020 11:23:34 AM
