Volvo Trucks North America revealed the new Volvo VNL series, aimed at long-haul trucking customers and professional drivers that offers efficiency, productivity, safety and uptime, according to the OEM. The new VNL series is available in several configurations, including a new 70-in. sleeper, and it comes standard with the 13-liter Volvo D13 engine, while Daycab and VNL 400 models can spec the 11-liter Volvo D11 as an option. The 15-liter Cummins X15 is also available in the VNL series. Both the Volvo D11 and D13 engines feature Volvo’s patented wave pistons, a unique design that helps burn fuel more efficiently. Fuel is delivered by a proven common rail fuel system with proprietary features that improve fuel delivery precision, cut weight and reduce noise, Volvo explained. The Volvo VNL is also available with the Volvo D13 Turbo Compound (D13 TC) engine that utilizes a mechanical waste heat recovery system to capture wasted energy from the engine’s exhaust. The result is an additional 50-HP fed back to the crankshaft and an improvement in fuel efficiency of up to 6.5%.
The new VNL sports swept back headlights and redesigned and repositioned engine air intakes allow for less turbulent intake air delivery. Airflow up and around the cab has also been optimized with new chassis and roof fairings. In terms of overall efficiency, the new VNL delivers up to a 7.5% increase in fuel efficiency, when combined with the efficiency benefits derived from the D13 TC, compared to a 2015 VNL model equipped with a GHG 2014 D13 engine.
The entire Volvo VNL series also comes standard with Volvo’s I-Shift automated manual transmission, which is fully integrated with Volvo engines. With a full array of sensors detecting speed, grade and load, the I-Shift knows when to shift, hold a gear or coast in neutral.
Safety first
Volvo Active Driver Assist by Bendix is now standard on all Volvo VNL models and employs a camera and radar-based system that combines forward collision mitigation warnings and active braking, even with stationary vehicles. The system features an industry-first heads up windshield display if a driver approaches too closely to an object in front of them. If no driver action is taken, the system can automatically apply the brakes to help mitigate a collision. Volvo Enhanced Stability Technology, an electronic stability control system, is also standard on all VNL models.
The VNL series is equipped with automotive-quality LED headlights that produce abundant bright light to improve visibility, the OEM stated. Automatic lighting and rain-sensing wipers are also available to improve safety.
Like all Volvo models, the new VNL series cab is built with high-strength steel and exceeds both the Volvo Swedish Cab Safety Test and ECE R-29 rollover requirements. The industry’s only standard driver’s side airbag is now joined by an integrated, seat-mounted rollover airbag on the driver’s side.
Driver-focused features
Volvo aims to boost driver productivity with features such as an all-new dashboard, which puts often-used controls within the driver’s reach. Centered in the gauge cluster is a configurable, 5-in. color driver information display that provides trip and diagnostic data. The driver information display is customizable, ensuring that critical information is always available to the driver at a quick glance. An optional infotainment system is available, featuring a 7-in. color touchscreen, navigation and an exterior back-up camera. A premium audio system is integrated with the infotainment system, which also features Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay for the ultimate in connectivity. Additional apps can be downloaded to the infotainment system as well. A dash-top tray features 12-volt power and USB connectivity to keep devices fully powered.
The new Volvo VNL is also equipped with Volvo’s smart steering wheel, putting controls for nearly all of the driver interface functions within reach. The smart steering wheel is attached to Volvo’s Perfect Position air-assisted, infinitely adjustable steering column, which enables drivers not only to tilt and telescope the steering column, but also tilt the steering wheel relative to the steering column, the OEM explained.
The VNL series offers four sleeper cab configurations that feature curved cabinets that open toward the back to maximize space, as well as an integrated, reclining bunk, which is a trucking industry first in North America. LED interior lighting reduces power consumption and provides softer lighting. A redesigned sleeper control panel allows drivers to control heating and cooling, and adjust the audio system from a more ergonomic position on the bunk. In addition, drivers can lock the doors or activate a panic alarm if needed.
For the first time in North America, Volvo’s Globetrotter trim levels will be available on the VNL 760 and VNL 860 sleeper models and include a full aerodynamic package, polished wheels, high-end seating, as well as a refrigerator, inverter and parking cooler package.
