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B Ride High Tipper
Page 44
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From the moment your foot touches the lowest (swinging) cab step, the Volvo FM oozes class. The instrument layout and interior ergonomics would pass muster in a classy saloon car, while the build quality, the panel fit and, above all, the lack of noise make this truck a driver's delight.
The Swedes' decision to offer EGR will be welcomed by muckaway operators.
Volvo's attention to detail extends to all-important (even for day work) in-cab storage there are dedicated spaces for small items such as pens and sunglasses, and a remote control for the alarm and various locking functions.
The high-ride construction chassis with steel bumper, sump guard, good entry angles and straight-beam front axles wasn't going to have any problem with the quarry, but would the I-Shift pull the loaded truck up the steep, muddy access slope in auto mode? Many fleets still specify a manual over automated option because they lack confidence in the ability of electronics to cope off-road, but our test truck climbed out without hesitation or the dreaded tandem bogie tramp. In many respects, the 12speed Volvo gear change is better spaced to match the engine than the 16 ratios in its two fellow contenders, and on the evidence of this short test, even off-road there's nothing to be gained by insisting on a manual change the I-Shirt has a manual override function and is likely to prove more economical.
On the asphalt: the Volvo is smooth and relaxing to drive. It has well-balanced and very precise steering, assured, almost roll-free cornering and the customary excellent 8x4 rigid ride quality.
Idling is very quiet due to an enclosed maintenancetree crankcase ventilation system, while Volvo claims the rear-mounted timing mechanism gives higher PTO torque, providing 300Nm if required while on the move. Despite this high specification, the Volvo was the lightest of the three muckaway chassis tested, but was also the most expensive.