Volvo Trucks continues to improve productivity within construction by releasing another five new features, including Volvo Dynamic Steering for dual front axles and increased front axle loads. This further highlights Volvo Trucks’ special attention to the construction segment.

Launched in 2010, the first Volvo FMX was followed up with a completely updated version in 2013, including innovative breakthroughs such as Volvo Dynamic Steering. In 2015 Volvo Trucks introduced a new series of options that will enable trucks and drivers operating in tough conditions to perform their work more smartly and efficiently.

“Volvo trucks have a solid reputation for their quality and drivelines. By adding new, innovative features we give our customers access to a broader range of options and unique ways to improve productivity,” says Ricard Fritz, Vice President, Volvo Trucks Brand.

In addition to introducing a heavy-duty bumper for the Volvo FH series and the industry-first Automatic Traction Control function for the Volvo FMX range of models with driven front axles 4×4,6×6, 8×6 etc. we are launching five more new options.

These are :

• Volvo Dynamic Steering for dual front axles (8×2 and 8×4 models)

Volvo Dynamic Steering, which was launched in 2013, is now also available on trucks with dual front axles the 8×2 and the construction industry standard 8×4 model. With twin dual front axles with a heavy load capability from 16 to 20-tonner, there are clear benefits for the driver. In addition to far lower turning resistance at low speeds, the steering wheel returns automatically to the straight-ahead position after full lock, cutting out the need for added effort in close-quarter manoeuvring and saving the driver both time and energy. Volvo Dynamic Steering consists of an electric motor that compensates for vibration and steering wheel movement while minimising the amount of force needed to steer the truck.

• Increased front axle loads, dual front axles (8×2 and 8×4 models)

The Volvo 8×2 and 8×4 models with dual front axles are available with 16 or 18-tonne shared load capacity. Volvo have now increased the maximum technical capacity from 18 (2 x 9-tonne) to 20-tonnes (2 x 10-tonne). Providing the truck is equipped with tyres suitable for the 10-tonne axle capacity. At 32-tonnes GVW in some EU countries there will the added benefit for a better tolerance on weight distribution especially with a heavy front mounted crane. Under UK rules the benefit is not easy to achieve as any weight over 17-tonnes cannot be achieved by single axles, so they must be connected by a bogie.

• Five-axle trucks (10×4 and 10×6)

On many markets, the trend is towards increased gross combination weights of between 50 and 76-tonnes. However, in the UK there is currently a restriction in normal operation to 32-tonnes GVW on 4 or more axles.

In order to meet the demand for heavier applications both on highways and in construction, Volvo Trucks is now launching factory-built 5-axle combinations. The two front axles can permit up to 20-tonnes maximum load and the three rear axles can handle up to 36-tonnes (24-tonnes in the UK) on special operations, resulting in both increased payload and greater flexibility for customers. This solution is suitable for concrete pumps and larger truck-mounted crane trucks that need uniform axle load distribution and operate as special vehicles.

• Rear air suspension in combination with Volvo FMX All-Wheel Drive models

The possibility of combining an air-suspended rear axle with a driven front axle permits the highest level of comfort even for trucks with all-wheel drive. Whereas leaf springs are generally dimensioned for the heaviest weights, air suspension offers the flexibility of adjustment to suit the weight of the load. This results in a smoother driving experience and less wear on truck, driver and road surface. Thanks to less vibration – especially when the truck is unladen – the driver can maintain a higher average speed on rough construction sites increasing the number of deliveries per shift. In addition to the enhanced comfort, Volvo Trucks’ air suspension also offers ground clearance of at least 300 mm and effective protection for all vulnerable components.

• Electronic Brake System for drum brakes

Customers who specify drum brakes for operation in particularly dusty or wet conditions can now benefit from the advantages of Volvo’s Electronic Brake System (EBS). The system’s electronics give access to a range of intelligent functions such as Hill Start Aid for better control (preventing roll backs) on steep gradients. Safety is also improved thanks to integration of engine braking and retarder function, known as Brake Blending. In addition to improved brake function, EBS in combination with drum brakes also offers access to Volvo Dynamic Steering and more efficient gear changes for I-Shift receives much better vehicle data from the electronic braking system.

“We want to be the leading brand in the construction segment just as we are in long haul. These new options and models in combination with our completely updated product range clearly sets a new standard for what a construction truck can deliver,” adds Ricard Fritz.