Volvo and Cummins' big Signature
Page 19
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
• Volvo's decision to offer Cummins' latest 15-litre Signature 600 engine (CM 24-30 July 1907) in its bonneted 1IN places the long-term viability of its own European 16-litre engine, used in the FH, in question.
Volvo Trucks North America is already running two prototype VNs with 600Im Signature engines matched to an uprated 2,200Ibit torque capacity 18-speed Fuller box, stronger back bogie, stiffer suspension as well as a larger clutch.
An example of the 600hp Signature will be shown by Volvo at the Mid America Truck Show this week. The all-electronic engine has already created major interest not least due to its lightness. At 1,202kg it offers a saving of 127kg over the old Cummins 14-litre which it Ago replaces.
Humours are circulating that Volvo will drop its own 16-litre in favour of the Signature on this side of the Atlantic. Gustafson refuses to be drawn on whether WV will be used as the proving ground for any European version—but says his division will report its operating experience with the big six-pot back to Sweden.
Given the relatively low volumes of its own 16-litre, Volvo could decide it can no longer justify any further development to Euro-3 and switch to the Signature for its heavy truck engine need above 12-litres.