GOTEBORG, Sweden, June 5, 2003 (PRIMEZONE) -- Volvo Trucks (Nasdaq:VOLVY) (Other OTC:VOLVF) (Other OTC:VOLAFK) has today presented yet another new truck model. The investment in the new model amounts to about one billion Swedish kronor, largely focused on an entirely new 16-litre engine. The new Volvo FH16 is the most powerful, comfortable and safe truck that Volvo Trucks has ever built. The Volvo FH16 is tailor-made to streamline transport operations within the EU, where extended vehicle rig lengths and higher gross combination weights are a crucial step.
The new model is based on the FH Series that was launched in autumn 2001, but it also features new technology that is entirely unique to the Volvo FH16.
"The Volvo FH16 is designed for the toughest of assignments. However, I believe that in the future we will also see higher gross vehicle weights and extended vehicle lengths in the ongoing bid to improve road haulage efficiency in Europe - . and that will call for more powerfull trucks", explains Jorma Halonen, President of Volvo Trucks.
Longer rigs
Goods haulage by road is expected to increase by 38 percent between 1998 and 2010, according to the EU commission. By permitting 25.25-metre rigs of 60 tonnes throughout the EU, the increase in the number of trucks on the roads would be greatly limited despite the significant increase in the actual amount of goods being carried.
The European modular system limits the vehicle rigs to 18.75 metres and 40 tonnes in most countries, while Sweden and Finland allow 25.25 metres and 60 tonnes. With the Swedish and Finnish regulations two 60 tonne combinations can do the same job as three 40 tonne truck combinations.
Better fuel economy
A smaller number of trucks on the roads without reducing payload capacity will bring considerable benefits. Two 25.25-metre rigs take up less road space than three rigs measuring 18.75 and 16.5 metres. Using these longer rigs will improve overall fuel efficiency by up to 15-20 percent. This in turn also means lower total emissions and lower running costs for every kilometre that each tonne of cargo is transported.
However, the Volvo FH16 is not only built for 60-tonne rigs. Even with today's 40-tonne limit in Europe, the Volvo FH16 makes it possible to complete long-haul operations faster than other trucks can manage.
"Maintaining a high average speed is all about tackling uphill gradients fast -- and about negotiating downhill gradients quickly and safely. With its immensely powerful engine and effective engine brake, the Volvo FH16 virtually irons out the hills, taking the ups and downs in its stride without slowing down," commented Jorma Halonen
The heart of the Volvo FH16 is the all-new D16C engine. It is an in-line six-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine with a displacement of 16.1 litres, available with a choice of two power outputs, 610 and 550 horsepower.
The safest Volvo truck ever
Specified with a number of safety systems that contribute to its market- leading safety level. The new Active Cruise Control (ACC) utilises Doppler radar to automatically maintain a safe distance to the vehicle in front and the additional ESP brake stabilisation system prevents skidding and rollover in critical situations. The trucks can also be equipped with Volvo's Electronic Brake System (EBS).
For more information, please contact Claes Claeson, +46 31 66 39 08 or +46 708 36 39 08
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