New Volvo FH rolls out

Swedish truck maker Volvo has unveiled its new FH model, with the linehaul-oriented truck recently premiered at a gala event in Sweden.

Like the new Volvo FH16, FM and FMX truck lines, the new Volvo FH has evolved to give drivers an even safer and more comfortable life on the road, while boosting productivity for owners and operators through a range of high-tech innovations.

Volvo says the re-imagined Volvo FH cab will help attract and retain quality drivers by placing the driver at the very heart of its functionality.

The new cab brings fresh styling and accents together with a number of technological updates, such as a new 12-inch high-resolution instrument display, which is complemented by a 9-inch side infotainment display.

"Easy access to a variety of information increases the driver's ability to perform more efficiently, safely and comfortably," says Carin Larsson, Chief Designer for User Experience and Human Machine Interaction for Volvo Trucks.

"The presentation of information has improved significantly with the new displays. Demanding interactions are now concentrated on the side display, which is placed within easy reach of the driver's seat. Distractions are therefore minimised as key driving information is shown clearly on the user-friendly and easily-viewable instrument display."

There's also a new, slimmer I-Shift gear selector and the bottom step is now lower, aiding cab entry and exit, while buyers can choose from a range of new interior fabrics and colours.

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On the outside, the new Volvo FH's signature V-shaped headlights have been moved outwards to align with the feature line of the cab doors, while the LED lights themselves now have an automatic high beam function, which detects vehicles ahead and deactivates a part of the beam as required.

The truck's Electronic Braking System (EBS) is now standard while the new Volvo FH now comes with Descent Control to allow the driver to set a maximum downhill speed, and Adaptive Cruise Control that now operates down to a standstill.

Road sign recognition is also available, as is an auxiliary side camera to help eliminate the blind spot down the passenger side of the truck.

Local specifications for the Volvo FH are yet to be announced, but in Europe and for linehaul operations, Volvo is claiming a potential fuel economy improvement of up to seven per cent, for 13-litre Euro 6 models fitted with Volvo's I-Save suite of fuel-saving measures, including topographic cruise control.

A number of different engine and driveline combinations will be offered, including Volvo's I-Shift automated transmission and I-Shift Dual Clutch. The full family of cabs for the new Volvo FH spans Low Sleeper, Sleeper, Globetrotter, Globetrotter XL and Globetrotter XXL.

Volvo Group Australia has said it will be taking orders for the new Volvo FH from the final quarter of 2020, with production at its Wacol facility in Brisbane to commence from the first quarter of 2021.

"The Volvo FH series has been a favourite among truck drivers for many years, especially for those who spend a good portion of their lives on the road," says Roger Alm, President of Volvo Trucks.

"With the new Volvo FH we are continuing our clear focus on designing trucks and offering services that can help drivers do a world class job.

"A good driver can make a huge contribution to our customer's profitability and around the world we see a chronic shortage of truck drivers. By launching this new truck which prioritises the professional driver's productivity and comfort, we have taken an important step forward in helping our customers attract and retain the best drivers."