Volvo Trucks North America recently launched its all-new Volvo VNR, delivering what the company calls “the safest, most versatile, and fuel-efficient solution purposefully designed to reshape the regional haul market.”
Featuring a 90 percent redesign over the previous generation truck, the all-new Volvo VNR integrates the latest proprietary safety systems from the ground up. The VNR is optimized for shorter-range operations, with a tighter turning radius ideal for navigating urban routes, while having the versatility to carry out long-haul operations when called upon, according to the company.
Advanced safety, connectivity, maneuverability, and visibility features further enhance its capability, making it well suited for areas with heavy pedestrian activity.
Production will take place at the Volvo Trucks New River Valley Plant in Dublin, Virginia, with sales starting in the coming months.
Versatility and Customization
The new Volvo VNR state-of-the-art configurator helps fleets customize the ideal truck for their operations, including selecting the cab model, trim level, and designated technology and driver amenity package. The all-new Volvo VNR was developed with versatility in mind and is available in a variety of Class 8 configurations, including 4×2, 6×2, and 6×4 tractors, as well as straight trucks with multiple body types.
24-Volt Electrical Architecture
As part of its 90 percent redesign, the all-new Volvo VNR incorporates the 24-volt electrical architecture that was introduced with the all-new Volvo VNL. The 24-volt architecture allows for faster and more accurate diagnostics, minimizing battery and electrical failures. Its design incorporates lighter components and more reliable, serviceable wiring harnesses, reducing wear and tear due to the lower amperage while ensuring maximum operational efficiency.
Safety Innovations
The all-new Volvo VNR features the proprietary Volvo Active Safety Platform, which includes Volvo Active Driver Assist (VADA) with forward collision warning, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. Industry-first safety features such as the E-Call emergency response system and integrated cab-mounted side curtain airbags available on both the driver and passenger side are all part of the latest step in Volvo’s commitment to developing next-generation safety and accident-prevention technologies.
Fuel Efficiency Improvements
The all-new Volvo VNR series delivers up to 7.5% improved fuel efficiency compared to the legacy VNR through enhanced aerodynamics, powertrain innovations, and idle reduction technologies reducing fuel costs and emissions for fleets. co-roll technology will disengage the driveline on a downhill grade and let the truck roll for an optimal amount of time to help save energy.
The wedge-shaped cab of the all-new Volvo VNR guides airflow to balance aerodynamics and cooling. The sleek design eliminates the need for an exterior sun visor, further optimizing airflow over the roof of the cab. The aerodynamic windshield has an aggressive curvature that reduces drag and is bonded to the steel cab for improved airflow over and around the cab.
Service and Uptime
The Blue Service Contract provides predictive maintenance, remote diagnostics, and access to a network of more than 400 Certified Uptime Dealerships, ensuring maximum uptime and efficiency for the all-new Volvo VNR. Certified dealerships now feature concierge service through a designated Fleet Manager who can proactively schedule service visits for a time that is convenient for a fleet’s operation, ensuring that every visit is as smooth and efficient as possible. The Fleet Manager coordinates all needed service for campaigns, recalls and software updates, allowing fleets to focus on their core business.
Connectivity
Volvo Trucks delivers one of the most connected Class 8 trucks in North America, offering advanced connectivity solutions that reduce total cost of ownership while enhancing productivity. The Volvo Connect portal and MyTruck App give fleets comprehensive vehicle data, remote access, and precise control over operations. With the MyTruck App, drivers can remotely monitor fluid levels, check lamp status, and adjust settings directly from their smartphone, ensuring optimal performance and convenience.
Volvo Connect is a simple, convenient portal where fleets can analyze near-real-time data such as location reporting, route analysis, pending remote programing updates, fuel economy, and driver safety information such as cruise control use, harsh braking incidents, and seatbelt use.
Maneuverability and Efficiency
When spec’d with Adaptive Loading, the all-new Volvo VNR includes an innovative 6×2 lift axle designed to optimize fuel efficiency and performance. Adaptive Loading balances the weight between the axles when the truck is heavily loaded, and at an appropriate point, the non-drive front axle automatically lifts, reducing friction and saving fuel. During lighter hauls, Adaptive Loading improves traction by transferring more weight to the rear axle.
Powertrain
The key to great fuel efficiency is choosing an engine and transmission that is customized to a customer’s operations. Powertrain enhancements on the all-new Volvo VNR account for nearly 30 percent of the fuel efficiency improvement. The next-generation D13 VGT engine features design enhancements to drive greater fuel savings. There are several ratings available for the all-new Volvo VNR with the VGT engine, ranging from 405-455 HP and 1450-1850 lb-ft. Two additional low-NOx engine ratings are available for the D13. Customers can also select the D13 Turbo Compound engine, which harnesses a waste heat recovery system to capture lost energy in order to maximize engine efficiency. When paired with Volvo’s I-Torque package, the D13 Turbo Compound engine provides versatility for fuel efficiency and performance.
