New Volvo Models Set For Local Production Mid-2024

The first of a new range of updated heavy-duty models unveiled this week in Sweden will start rolling off Volvo Trucks’ Wacol assembly line mid-2024.

The new line-up includes updated FH and FM models featuring a range of aerodynamic and safety enhancements – as well as a new 17-litre engine.

The D17 engine is equipped with a single efficient turbocharger that boosts engine responsiveness and improves the driving experience.

The new engine utilises Volvo’s patented wave piston design which optimises combustion and reduces emissions, while the new injection system ensures improved fuel economy, and the increased peak cylinder pressure enables high power output.

Volvo’s updated FH and FM models feature a range of aerodynamic and safety enhancements

While power ratings for the local market are yet to be confirmed, Volvo Group Australia President and CEO Martin Merrick is confident the new D17 engine will be a game changer for both linehaul, regional and heavy haulage operators.

“This engine has been subjected to a brutal local testing program in some of the harshest conditions and some of the highest weights this country has to offer to ensure the uptime and productivity that Volvo Trucks customers have come to expect,” he says.

Additionally, Volvo’s I-See technology has been refined to save energy and carbon emissions, using a cloud-based topographic map to optimise driving and enabling more driving time in cruise control mode that can both save energy and offer more relaxed driving.

Updated brakes with Volvo patented drag-free brake discs, pads and hubs improve the braking capacity, reducing energy consumption and emissions.

Volvo says the updated FH is the cleanest, most efficient, and most powerful truck ever offered in Australia

All engines are available with 13- and 14-speed Crawler and Ultra-Low Crawler I-Shift AMT transmissions as well as the traditional 12-speed. The new FH16 600 also benefits from the option of a new low-drag I-Shift variant for highway applications.

Driver appeal, safety and efficiency are at the forefront of arguably the biggest revamp of the Volvo FH since the launch of the fourth-generation FH platform in 2012.

Both the FH and FM cab have received significant aerodynamic improvements; however, the most noticeable feature is the addition of the optional Camera Monitoring System (CMS) which replaces the traditional left and right mirror assembly.

CMS gives a wider field of view than a standard glass mirror and is able to shift that view accordingly as an articulated combination negotiates turns and intersections. An additional outcome is the aerodynamic and efficiency gains of not having mirror housings on the side of the cab.

The FH and FM offer an optional Camera Monitoring System which replaces the traditional mirrors

The A-pillar mounted CMS screens can also be activated remotely from the sleeper for additional security while the driver is resting.

Inside the FH benefits from a revised audio system as well as interior styling and branding updates.

“This latest iteration of the Volvo FH is the cleanest, most efficient, and most powerful truck we’ve offered Australia customers yet,” Merrick adds.

“With the Volvo FH having just celebrated 30 years of delivering unparalleled levels of safety, performance and efficiency, it’s fitting that the revamped Volvo range has raised the bar in these areas once again.

The refreshed FH boasts a revised audio system and interior styling and branding updates

“Regardless of driveline, whether ICE or BEV, the Volvo FH will continue to deliver efficiency, safety, power and comfort for Australian drivers and I for one will be very proud to see the first of these new trucks roll off our Wacol assembly line mid-2024.”

The FH range has also expanded with the addition of an extended-front variant dubbed the FH-Aero available for the European market.

The recent relaxation of European length regulations has enabled an extra 240mm to be added to the front air dam of the FH cab, extending the front to provide a significantly lower drag co-efficient.