Volvo Trucks launch new-generation FH16 model

New-generation model combines power with comfort and safety for superior productivity

VOLVO Trucks have launched a new generation of the Volvo FH16 which successfully combines new safety features, a driver-centric working environment and the latest technologies to give customers enhanced productivity.

‘The Volvo FH16 is a genuine premium product that can handle all the most demanding applications and, at the same time, give customers and drivers the best of everything,’ said Roger Alm, president of Volvo Trucks.

‘With the new generation we have created a package that makes no compromises between power and fuel efficiency, comfort and style.’

The exterior of the new truck is characterized by V-shaped headlamps which feature crystal-like effects to reflect the intelligent technology the trucks are built upon. The strong character and heritage of the Volvo FH16 flagship model can be enhanced with the waterfall-themed grill, while the headlamp panels have been repositioned slightly outwards to give the vehicle both improved aerodynamics and a confident stance.

‘In the new Volvo FH16, we have re-imagined the most iconic design elements from our earlier generations and further enhanced them. With the new high-tech headlights, for example, we have taken our strong light identity to the next level, while the entire front of the truck has been reworked to convey a more powerful impression,’ explained Ismail Ovacik, chief exterior designer for Volvo Trucks.

‘Bolder, more sophisticated and confident, the exterior of the Volvo FH16 reflects the fact that this truck is more connected and smarter than ever before,’ he said.

The interior of the new Volvo FH16 has been designed specifically with drivers in mind and updated with new accent colours and trim that have both the look and feel of quality and exclusivity.

The upgraded dashboard includes practical new storage spaces and a fully digital 12in high-resolution instrument display. The driver can select between four different screen views, depending on the driving situation and information they would wish to have displayed.

The driver’s area can be equipped with a 9in side display that provides infotainment, navigation assistance, transport information and camera monitoring. The display is easily reachable from the driver’s position.

Interaction can be achieved in several ways: with the intuitively positioned buttons on the steering wheel, through voice control, or directly via the touchscreen and display control panel. Both the instrument display and the side display work in numerous languages.

In the new trucks, the I-Shift gear selector has been redesigned to a premium standard and includes illuminated gear selection symbols and new drive modes for optimized performance.

Increased front-axle load capacity, and tag and pusher axles with better steering angles, improve both the manoeuvrability and productivity of the Volvo FH16. A new 38-tonne bogie is also available for especially demanding operations.

The new Volvo FH16 features adaptive high-beam headlamps that improve safety for all road users by automatically disabling selected segments of the LED high beam when the truck approaches oncoming traffic or another vehicle from behind. The high beam is adjusted when the camera and radar detects other vehicles or when the camera detects changes in the amount of light around the truck.

Safety is further improved with Descent Control, which sets a maximum speed to help prevent unwanted acceleration when travelling downhill, and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) that now works at all speeds even down to zero km/h.

The electronically controlled brake system (EBS), which is a prerequisite for safety features such as Collision Warning with Emergency Brake and Electronic Stability Control, now comes as standard on the new truck. Volvo Dynamic Steering, with its Lane Keeping Assist and Stability Assist safety systems, is also available as an option.

The new Volvo FH16 also features a road sign recognition system displayed in the instrument display. The system detects signs such as overtaking restrictions, road type and speed limits.

The visibility can be improved further by the addition of a camera on the passenger side that provides a complementary view of the side of the truck on the side display.

With its powerful 16-litre, 750hp engine, improved manoeuvrability, the latest safety technology and greater driver support, Volvo Trucks say the new FH16 delivers superior productivity for the most demanding transport tasks.