Volvo launch the new FH16 – Europe’s most powerful production truck

With its 660hp 16-litre D16E engine, the new Volvo FH16 – launched today – is Europe’s most powerful production truck. Now equipped with a newly-developed engine brake (VEB+) - which increases braking power by 15 per cent – and Volvo’s I-Shift, the celebrated automated gearchanging system, the FH16 is now dimensioned to handle gross combination weights of 60-tonnes and more.

"With the new Volvo FH16, we’re extending our lead in the prestige segment. We are combining top performance with intelligent resource utilisation, economy, comfort and safety," says Roar Isaksen, European director of Volvo Trucks.

660 hp and 3100 Nm

The Volvo FH16 is more competent than ever and provides the necessary prerequisites for high average speeds even in the most demanding transport operations. Intelligent power utilisation means using energy when the power is really needed. This is the approach that characterises the Volvo FH16 that is now being launched with the higher power outputs of 660hp and 580 hp (3100 Nm and 2800 Nm respectively). Maximum torque sector is available over a wide rev range, with 90 per cent of the torque available within 2 seconds.

Power and torque give strength and driveability. Irrespective of whether we are talking about difficult starts when hauling timber on a muddy forest track, or forging ahead up a mountain pass towing a fully loaded trailer, the immense pulling power makes the driver’s job so much easier.

High average speed and high braking power

The Volvo FH16 comes into its own when dealing with high gross combination weights in hilly terrain. High power output means it is possible to maintain speed uphill, while thanks to high engine braking ability it is possible to travel safely downhill without burdening the wheel brakes.

The engine brake takes a major step forward with VEB+ (the new generation Volvo Engine Brake) which is introduced as an option on the D16E. Braking output has increased by 15 per cent compared with the previous VEB. A compression brake is integrated into the valve train and VEB+ features an extra rocker arm that is used during braking, making it possible to increase pressure on the exhaust valves. Maximum braking power with VEB+ is a massive 425 kW at 2100rpm, which reduces the need for a heavy gearbox retarder.

The FH16 is built to tackle tomorrow’s requirements – longer vehicle combinations with higher gross combination weights – and is ideal for the 25.25 metre long European modular system where two 60-tonne units can perform the same transport work as three 40-tonne combinations. If every truck’s length is utilised to the maximum, this will reduce the total number of vehicles on the road, which in turn will reduce overall fuel consumption and lessen any consequential environmental effect.

I-Shift for 60 tonnes and over

The new FH16 can now feature Volvo’s celebrated I-Shift automated gearbox for a 60-tonne gross combination weight. Using I-shift the engine and transmission function smoothly as a single unit with optimum gearchanging as a result.

For special transport assignments, the driveline can be optimised to handle gross combination weights above 60 tonnes.

The I-Shift automated gearchanging system combines the robustness of the manual gearbox with the comfort and convenience of an automatic transmission. It is is basically a 12-speed electronically-controlled mechanical splitter and range-change gearbox designed for automatic gearchanging. In addition to being new to the Volvo FH16, I-Shift is both shorter and lighter than a conventional splitter gearbox.

With I-Shift the driver is free to concentrate on driving and on the traffic. Different programs give I-Shift properties that vary with the driving conditions to optimise parameters such as comfort and fuel economy as needs change. However, it is always possible to manually over-ride the system if the driver wishes.

Although the FH16-660 has I-Shift fitted as standard, the driveline range also includes a manual 14-speed splitter and range-change gearbox for the FH16-580. There is an extensive rear axle range – solo axles and tandem axles with single or hub reduction, all designed to transmit power with minimal losses. All the rear axles feature a differential lock to help maintain traction when the road surface is slippery.

The fast-acting EBS (Electronically-controlled Brake System) disc brakes have been upgraded. The system’s functions are now integrated in the software itself, which makes it possible to optimise EBS to suit transport requirements. The ‘Hill Start Aid’ function, for instance, makes it easier to start on an uphill gradient with a heavy load. The service brakes remain engaged when starting, but is released automatically when the engine produces sufficient torque to get the vehicle moving.

Tried and tested engine design

The D16E has undergone a number of design improvements in order to reach power outputs of 660 hp. For example, the in-line six-cylinder 16.1 litre diesel engine has a new one-piece cylinder head, overhead camshaft, 4 valves per cylinder and electronically-controlled unit injectors. The engine is equipped with a new turbocharger and an Intercooler. All in all, it is now quieter in operation, which reduces the need for heat-inducing sound-proof panels.

The timing mechanism is located at the rear of the engine, which creates a compact, quiet design and saves weight. Volvo is building further on its tried and tested engine design that centres on an in-line, turbocharged six-cylinder diesel unit. When dealing with such large engine displacements and high power outputs, the six-cylinder engine offers several clear-cut advantages, such as fewer moving parts and better cooling capacity. With an in-line six, the flow of engine cooling air is not disrupted in the same way as for a V8, which is a major benefit when it comes to cooling performance. The in-line six has larger bearing surfaces to distribute mechanical forces more evenly since it features seven main bearings. The D16E is available with closed crankcase ventilation as an option.

Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) exhaust gas filtration for Euro 4

The new engine ratings meet the Euro 4 exhaust emission legislation due to come into effect this October and is very fuel-efficient, bearing in mind the type of transport work it does.

The D16E engine is designed from the ground up for efficient combustion and low particulate emissions, and the residual oxides of nitrogen (NoX) are reduced in an after-treatment stage. In this process, an additive known as ‘AdBlue’ is injected into the exhaust gases before they pass through an SCR catalytic converter. Inside the catalytic converter, the Ammonia released from the AdBlue reacts with the oxides of nitrogen converting them into harmless nitrogen gas and water vapour.

SCR exhaust filtration is highly suitable for powerful engines since neither cooling nor lubrication is affected. In an in-line six-cylinder engine with SCR, high power outputs can be produced without any limitations.

Design for function and safety

It’s not going to escape anyone’s notice that this is a new truck. The Volvo FH16 has a distinct new front and the lower grilles now form a cohesive unit which also allows the passage of more cooling air. A re-designed Globetrotter sign with its globe symbol gives added emphasis to the model.

The Volvo FH16 is characterised by powerful design language. The safety cab is available in three cab options – Sleeper, Globetrotter and Globetrotter XL. The aerodynamic design with its gentle curvature and well-matched air deflectors combine to reduce air drag and lower fuel consumption.

In-cab comfort is of the highest level in Volvo’s cab range. The interior trim is colour-matched in light grey and terracotta with carefully selected materials in the upholstery, mats and curtains. In addition, the new, thicker mattress has pocket-springs for enhanced sleeping comfort. The instrument panel is gently curved with every instrument and control positioned for optimum driver ergonomics. The combined instrument is improved, now featuring a clearer driver information display with a better screen resolution.

The cab, which is made of high-tensile steel, forms a sturdy safety cage and Volvo’s FUPS (Front Under-run Protection System) increases safety for other road users.

"The new Volvo FH16 accommodates the trend towards heavier road transport. Heavier and longer rigs increase transport efficiency and are good for the environment. They are needed to meet the growing volumes of transport in Europe," says Staffan Jufors, President and CEO of Volvo Trucks.