All-new Volvo breaks UK cover
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CM reported in February that Volvo was preparing the new FH for launch with road trials. We’ve now spotted the truck on UK roads. Here are all the details
By Andy Salter VOLVO IS TRIALLING the new FTI replacement in the UK as it prepares its truck line-up for launch next year. The truck has been spotted around the UK by eagle-eyed CM readers and, as our exclusive pictures illustrate, the machine is starkly different from the outgoing FTI. Although seen here disguised, it’s clear the cab frame has been signiicantly redesigned. Gone is the sharply raked screen of the current model and in comes a boxier cab design more akin to the new Actros and DAF XF as Volvo engineers seek to maximise in-cab living space.
While the old FTI cab, irst launched in 1994, set new standards in aerodynamic eficiency at the time, in-cab space was compromised and it looks like the Swedes have addressed those issues with the new product.
Roof design
Seen here in high-roof Globetrotter XL format, there is also a lower Globetrotter doing the rounds (DX11 ELO). The new cab appears to have an innovative new roof design, no doubt intended to improve aerodynamic eficiency, while apparently retaining good overhead space above the seats for standing and/or locker space.
Deep storage lockers on both sides still appear to be the order of the day, as do the characteristic big mirrors, contributing to excellent all-round visibility from the big screen and deep side windows. In cab it appears the dash is a fairly lat affair, aiding cross-cab access, while we expect a lat loor to be a standard offering, ensuring maximum in-cab living space.
Cooling capacity
As with all the current generation of new vehicles under development, Volvo has had to increase the cooling capacity on the new model to cope with the demands of the stringent Euro-6 engine emissions protocols. This manifests itself in the shape of a new, bigger grille design, which is sure to give the new Volvo a distinct on-road presence.
Our pictures hint at a bolder style with a redesigned headlight cluster. According to a DVLA enquiry of the registration plate of the truck, it is registered to Volvo and is powered by the 12.8-litre Volvo engine – currently under the cab of the FH range, although for Euro-6 this motor will no doubt be re-engineered further. The AdBlue tank mounted behind the cab in the 6x2 model indicates SCR remains the preferred exhaust clean-up solution, although, in line with the approach of the majority of European OEMs, there will no doubt be some exhaust gas recirculation required to keep NOx levels down. We also expect new turbo technology and high-pressure injectors to be employed in the powertrain.
The new Volvo will share the same body – white cab – design as fellow Volvo AB truckmaker Renault Trucks. The inal cab styling and interior layout will be given a makeover by the French designers and it’s likely this truck is on trial as it approaches launch early next year, possibly painted brown.