80th anniversary truck launched with new safety systems

Just in time for Volvo’s 80th anniversary, Volvo Trucks is unveiling an exclusive ‘limited edition’ jubilee version of the Volvo FH and FH16 models. Among the many unique features is a specially designed interior and ultra-high driver comfort, but above all, Volvo has focused heavily on safety. For example, the ‘Anniversary’ truck is the first Volvo truck with Lane Keeping Support -a new system that alerts the driver if the truck accidentally strays from its lane.

“Safety has been Volvo’s foremost characteristic ever since the company’s birth back in 1927“, explains Peter Lindgren, project manager for the anniversary truck at Volvo Trucks. “That’s why we want to emphasise it even more, now that we’re celebrating our 80th anniversary.”

Comprehensive safety equipment

In addition to Lane Keeping Support, the Volvo anniversary truck is equipped with a new generation of Adaptive Cruise Control that also activates the wheel brakes, if necessary. ACC ensures that the truck maintains the correct distance behind the vehicle in front and - if this safety gap shrinks too much - the auxiliary brakes are activated and if necessary, the wheel brakes too.

“The new generation of Adaptive Cruise Control contributes to both higher comfort and increased safety,” says Peter Lindgren.

Electronically controlled disc brakes with ESP (Electronic Stability Program), Volvo’s VEB+ engine brake, Xenon headlights, seat belt pre-tensioners and an airbag are also all included in the safety package.

Specially designed interior

However, not everything on the vehicle is safety-related, because Volvo Trucks is aiming the special anniversary truck at customers who want something well above the ‘norm’.

The specially-designed interior features textiles, mats and décor inlays with clear Art Deco inspiration. The driver sits in a deluxe seat with leather armrests, body-weight-adjusted air suspension, ventilated seat and backrest cushions and a wide range of adjustments. Also included in the package is a leather steering wheel with integrated controls for the audio system and an advanced audio unit.

Volvo’s ‘Prestige’ package also features central locking, power windows, tinted glass, outside sun visor and other items that make driving that much more of a pleasure.

The metallic-painted cab has a unique silver livery and décor stripes featuring the 80th anniversary theme.

Limited edition

The jubilee version of the Volvo FH comes with a 13-litre engine producing either 480 or 520hp, whereas customers choosing the Volvo FH16 can specify their truck with 540, 580 or 660hp engine variants, all matched to Volvo’s industry-leading automated gearbox, I-Shift. The Volvo anniversary trucks are available with either a ‘Globetrotter’ or ‘Globetrotter XL’ cab and will be sold in a limited edition during 2007.

“We will only build 800 trucks, and after that there won’t be any more,” says Peter Lindgren. “Those customers who want an exclusive truck should be able to feel that they’ve got something truly out of the ordinary. However, having said that, both Lane Keeping Support and the new-generation ACC will be available as options on all new Volvo FH and FH16 trucks.”

A unique Globetrotter XL-cabbed 4x2 FH16-540 version of the Anniversary truck will on display on the Volvo Truck stand at this years’ CV Show at the NEC, Birmingham from 24th – 26th April 2007.