Volvo launches low artics
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/Vol v o Trucks has launched lowheight versions of its FL10, F10 and F12 tractive units for operations up to 38 tonnes GCW. The lowheight artics are designed to provide maximum load volumes in a semi-trailer while keeping within the overall 4m continental height limit.
Depending on the tyres fitted, Volvo can produce a tractor with a fifth-wheel height of 960mm or 1,010mm using a 150mmdeep Jost fifth wheel. The 960mm version has the latest 285/60 R22.5 tyres on 22.5 rims; the 1,010mm chassis uses 275/70s all round, also on 22.5 wheels.
According to Volvo the lowheight tractors allow internal semi-trailer heights to be up to 350mm more than with standard tractors, while reducing the fifth-wheel height to 960mm "brings the design target — a 100m3 capacity semi-trailer — within reach".
The low-height models are produced at Volvo Trucks' Irvine plant with a thicker section frame, contoured at the back. Rear mudwings have a centre section which can be taken out when running on the Continent.
Like standard 4x2 Volvo tractors, the low-height models have rear-axle air suspension as standard, although some components from Volvo's bus air suspension have been mixed with the usual truck system.
For a 1,010mm fifth-wheel height FL10 Volvo quotes a fully fuelled kerbweight of 6,687kg, about 100kg more than a standard height FL10. Plated axle weights are 6.3 tonnes for the front and 11.6 tonnes for the rear. So far five low-height tractors have been produced. A prototype model has been running with UCI Logistics/Robsons and Volvo has orders for another 12.
Prices for the low-height artic conversion, produced through Volvo's SVO department, range from £3,000 to £6,000 depending on model and specification. El Volvo is understood to be carrying out operator trials with carbon fibre springs on FL10 tractive units in the UK and on the Continent. The main advantage of the composite springs is weight saving although an increase in axle weights to 7.5 to 13.5 tonnes could negate their need.