New Volvo FH breaks cover – in toy form
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By Will Shiers THIS IS THE first sighting of the new Volvo FH – albeit in model form. The exclusive photograph, which was leaked from a Chinese toy factory, is incredibly detailed and gives us a good idea of what to expect when the full-sized version is launched later this year.
The truck clearly features an allnew cab, which has allowed Volvo to reduce the rake of the windscreen. This change is likely to prove popular with drivers, many of whom complain that the steep rake of the current screen restricts living space. Reducing its angle is likely to have a detrimental effect on the truck’s aerodynamics. But Volvo appears to have counteracted this by smoothing the profile of the cab roof. The air intake has been neatly integrated into the roofline, and the front corners now feature integrated lights – similar to those on the Daf XF105.
Although the truck has a bigger grille, we aren’t convinced that cooling capacity has been increased. The mesh looks to be more fashionable than functional, and the actual openings do not appear to be bigger than on the current FH.
The side profile is clearly different too, and the doors and windows now feature a distinctive upwards sweep.
Both the new Volvo FH, and the next generation of Renault Magnum (which is likely to share this cab), are expected to be launched at this year’s IAA Commercial Vehicle Show, which takes place in Hannover (20-27 September).