Volvo Trucks launches incredible VNL

Redefining industry standards

Volvo says that the new truck is “redefining industry standards in heavy-duty trucking”. That’s because it is said to offer unrivalled productivity, safety, profitability, and sustainability. Plus, it also transforms drivers’ experiences behind the wheel.

“The all-new Volvo VNL was designed to change everything. However, change doesn’t only come with a redesigned truck — this product introduction is the start of a new era for Volvo Trucks, our customers, and their drivers. As we bring the all-new Volvo VNL to market, we are excited to introduce innovations that will shape the future of the transportation industry for years to come,” says Peter Voorhoeve, president of Volvo Trucks North America.

Aerodynamic and efficient

We reckon that this truck is a real looker. But it’s more than just a pretty face. To boost its fuel efficiency, the new Volvo VNL has a redesigned aerodynamic shape, with a wedge-shaped cab and a reshaped windshield. Important changes for better aerodynamics include tighter spaces around the wheel openings, bumper and bonnet, along with a smaller gap between the back of the cab and the trailer.

The truck is powered by the latest generation D13 engine that is said to deliver improved fuel efficiency, performance, and durability. The D13 engine is available in four horsepower ratings (ranging from 405 to 500hp) and three torque ratings (from 2,370 to 2,640Nm). Paired with the I-Shift automated manual transmission featuring shift speeds up to 30% faster and the I-Torque powertrain solution, the new Volvo VNL is said to deliver unparalleled fuel and CO₂ savings, versatility, and drivability across diverse applications. Transport companies can expect to see significant annual savings in operating costs with the new truck, Volvo promises. The savings are thanks to reduced fuel costs, increased operational efficiency and uptime with fewer unplanned stops.

A super-safe truck

Volvo Trucks is synonymous with safety – and so it comes as no surprise to discover that this is a super-safe vehicle.

The Volvo Active Driver Assist Plus with Pilot Assist, powered by Volvo Dynamic Steering, is a top-notch safety system that improves how the truck handles and responds to different road conditions. The truck also has a new feature that detects pedestrians and cyclists, giving drivers a heads-up about potential dangers and automatically applying emergency brakes if something is right in front of the truck.

In the new Volvo VNL, the cab is made of high-strength steel. It includes a side-curtain airbag, which is a first in the North American industry. Operators can choose between having airbags for just the driver or for both the driver and passenger. Another fabulous safety feature, E-Call, connects the driver to emergency services in areas with cellular connectivity, providing precise location details. This happens automatically after a rollover or airbag deployment.

Driver-Focused Design

The new Volvo VNL – which must surely have one of the best-looking interiors in any modern truck – is designed with drivers in mind. They can enjoy features like an optional folding bunk for easy dinette access, a simplified control panel, better insulation, a larger refrigerator, and flexible power options – so it’s a real “home away from home”.

The truck also comes with a tremendous gadget called the Volvo Parking Cooler. In some areas in the US, idling is prohibited. When drivers park in these areas, the integrated Volvo Parking Cooler maintains a comfortable climate. Yet another nifty piece of tech is the Global Rear Air Suspension system, which provides drivers with terrific ride quality, stability, and handling. This reduces fatigue – meaning the driver does a safer job.

Connectivity

The new Volvo VNL benefits from over-the-air (OTA) updates to optimize performance, and the integrated Volvo Connect, an all-in-one fleet management portal, which centralizes all of Volvo Trucks’ digital services under one platform. We also really like the sound of the new Volvo MyTruck app. It gives the driver all sorts of information about his or her truck – from the estimated remaining fuel range to notifications about potential issues such as light malfunctions or low washer fluid levels. Additionally, with the app, drivers can schedule specific days and times to start the climate control. In this way, the cabin climate reaches the driver’s preferred temperature before he or she arrives at work. How cool is that? (Pun fully intended.)

Great for driver retention

In the US, where there is a real shortage of truck drivers, the new VNL can be an operator’s secret weapon – in that it can attract and retain top-notch drivers. As Voorhoeve notes: “Companies must prioritize driver retention and well-being with driver-friendly features and advanced technologies, providing an exceptional driving experience that is key for fleets to attract and retain drivers. With an interior and exterior design that stops you in your tracks, every innovation introduced in the all-new Volvo VNL was made with the goal to make a driver’s job a little easier and safer.” It certainly looks like that goal was achieved…