Volvo claims fuel consumption cuts

Volvo Trucks Australia is introducing new functions that help drivers save fuel even when cruise control is not activated.

The launch of an upgraded D13 Euro 5 engine, together with new software, enables fuel savings of up to three per cent the manufacturer says.

One new function is called Volvo Torque Assist and is intended to reduce fuel consumption by providing more efficient driving when the cruise control is disabled in long-haul operations.

“There is no doubt that fuel efficiency is one of the most pressing issues in the transport industry today,” said Volvo Trucks Australia Vice President of Sales, Tony O’Connell.

Related reading:
BTS: Volvo reveals FH 25 Year Special Edition
Volvo FH16 XXL:Review
Volvo I-Shift Dual-Clutch Transmission: Review

“Because of this, we want to maximise fuel saving measures, especially when cruise control is not applicable. I-See, our topography predictive cruise control, is still the best method for optimising fuel use, but it is not always suitable for all specific traffic and weather conditions. With Volvo Torque Assist we can still support drivers in such situations,” he added.

Volvo Torque Assist is designed to provide more fuel-efficient driving by automatically adapting the truck’s torque and acceleration to the road topography, the load and speed changes. The function is only active when driving without using cruise control as a complement to I-See. Another supporting function keeps the amount of injected fuel constant after the engine’s ‘green range’ has been passed. The slightly compromised performance is compensated by improved fuel economy, we’re told.

Mr O’Connell went on to say that the pedal map has also been recalibrated. A less sensitive pedal creates a smoother torque development, which, in turn, makes the truck easier to control.

“Drivers that are less skilled in economical driving will benefit more than those who already have that driving style,” he said. “The new software also gives a significant result with heavy loads, many slope changes or large speed variations, while drivers transporting lighter loads with constant speed on flat roads will save less fuel. Our extensive global field tests have actually seen examples of larger potential for fuel savings, than the three per cent.”

The hardware upgrades in the Euro 6 Step D versions of the D13 engine, released earlier in 2019 by Volvo Trucks globally, are also being used to raise the standards of Euro 5 engines. Internal friction has been reduced with new cylinder liners and new V-shaped oil scraper rings.

Volvo says the turbo efficiency has been improved and the engine management system is upgraded to a newer version with better computing capacity.

In all, these hardware upgrades save around one per cent of fuel, while the fuel saving potential for the new software depends on driver experience, GCM and the operating conditions.