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Twice the fun

26th June 2008, Page 16
26th June 2008
Page 16
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Page 16, 26th June 2008 — Twice the fun
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At last week's new FH launch, Volvo slipped a brand new 11-litre engine and an extra high-roof version of the FM into the celebrations, too.

IT MIGHT SEEM a little odd that CM should be focusing its attention on what were, after all, 'support acts' at last week's new Volvo F1-I launch.

Yet the appearance of the latest D1 1 engine and LXL Globetrotter cab for the FM will have shown up as a major blip on the radar of UK fleet operators anxious to save weight, or retain drivers... or both.

The new D1 1 , rated at 390hp and 430hp fills the gap between Volvo's smaller D9 and larger D13 engines, which finish — and start — at 380hp and 400hp respectively. As well as being 140kg lighter than D13 (which will score with the more weight-conscious out there), it should appeal to those supermarket fleets reluctant to buy a 'big gun' engine in a Volvo tractor.

We've no doubt D1 I will also grab the attention of multi-wheeler operators, although, for the moment, Volvo is restricting it to FM tractors (we'll see how long that lasts).

The FM's new LXL Globetrotter cab option further enhances its fleet appeal for drivers, too.

With FM DCL, Volvo has a tractor that is capable of matching the recently arrived Scania G-Range Highline as well as the Daf CF Space Cab.

And for those smaller hauliers reluctant to splash out on an FH with a high datum cab, it's the obvious compromise to keep drivers happy.

CM had the chance to drive the new FM and FH at last week's launch event. and we were impressed by both.

On the road Although a short burst on a test track is hardly the ultimate work-out for a new truck (certainly not as far as CM is concerned), it does offer a snapshot as to the potential of a new model. And in the case of the new DI 1 FM, we'd say there's plenty.

Opting for a fully-laden 3+3 silo tanker as our test mount, the 430hp D1 1 has a distinctive sound when you fire it up. Not harsh, hut a higher hark compared to the nimble of the D13. Coupled to the 1-Shift auto, it pulls well, changing within the same tight rev band we've come to expect with I-Shift and the D13. With 2,100Nm of torque, it had no trouble hurrying along a 44-tonne loaded combination. Frankly, its power-to-weight ratio just felt 'right'.

Moreover, its lower-mounted (than an FYI) cab was rock solid around the corners, despite that fact it was sporting the latest LXL high top.

Inside, the extra 140mm really tells. An average-height driver will be able to pretty much stand upright on the engine hump, and for a three or four nights-out UK motor, there's plenty of living room and storage space inside. We next tried a 480hp 4x2 FH tractor complete with new cab.

We've already described it in last week's CM, but while it might look the same on the outside, the revised bottom grille section offers a greater air-flow into the radiator.

The smaller headlamp units (the spot/ fog and optional coming lamps are split into a separate cluster) should be cheaper to replace, not least because they have an impact-resistant plastic lens.

Inside, the FH's new interior layout addresses most drivers' grumbles about needing more storage in the dash, access to the exterior lockers from within the cab, more useable storage under the bed and the ability to move freely around without rubbing your shoulder up against the front overhead lockers.

We also like the swivelling passenger seat (a In Magnum) and how the top half of the bottom bunk can be tilted upwards, effectively turning it into a 'lounger' (just like in the new Actros). We tried it and it works well.

The FH1 6 gets all the new FH interior changes, but with its own interior trim and badging as befits a flagship tractor.

As ever, there's a strong emphasis on safety with Volvo also unveiling its Driver Alert System, which warns a driver if they are losing concentration behind the wheel. We will describe this in detail in a forthcoming edition. •

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