Cummins N14 for Volvo by Steve Brooks • Volvo is
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to offer the Cummins N14 as an option in its NH bonneted truck in Australia with the likelihood of a new 460hp D12A variant to follow next year. The uprated D12A could also appear in the European FH range.
The announcement comes just six months after the appointment of Claes Svedberg as managing director of Volvo Truck Australia; it is designed to spark a resurgence in the company's fortunes following problems with a new computerised production system in its Brisbane factory.
The introduction of the Cummins N14, which puts out 525hp through an Eaton 18speed gearbox, will also satisfy a large portion of the market's demand for higher engine outputs.
Svedberg concedes this will create a large gap in the NH's power ratings, but says the likely introduction of the 460hp D12A is cause for strong optimism.
Despite rumours to the contrary (see panel) Svedberg says Volvo's 470 and 520hp 16litre engine is still being considered for the NH: "We are presently reviewing the installation of our 16-litre engine in the NH series. However, as it is a completely new installation it requires substantial design work and testing before a final decision can be taken."
Svedberg adds that Cummins' Signature 600 is not being considered at this stage and that assessing customer reaction to the N14 is the first priority. The N14 has already proved successful in the American version of the NH, which is marketed as the VN.