A complement of 16 truck and tractor models will be offered
Targeted at construction, refuse and other vocational fleets, the new Class 8 Volvo VHD will have 16 truck and tractor models available when it goes into production this month, including models spec'd for dump, mixer, rear-packer, crane, heavy-haul and fire applications. The goal, say Volvo Truck North America officials, is to give vocational truck users quick delivery on vehicles specifically built for their particular application.
The all-new vocational truck, which is based on the Volvo VN on-highway platform, includes set-back and set-forward front axle models with axle configurations ranging from 6x4 to 12x4, and even includes options for up to three factory-installed auxiliary lift axles. The standard engine is Volvo's VE 345 diesel, with optional Volvo and Cummins engines offered in ratings up to 465 hp.
The VHD has six frame-rail options to accommodate a wide variety of applications and weight requirements, and it features a standard rail said to be as strong as a double frame while weighing up to 6 lb. less per foot.
Recognizing that vocational trucks are usually outfitted with work bodies by third-party body builders, the VHD has been designed to simplify body installation and help speed up vehicle delivery. The back of the cab is free of components, and there are easily accessible built-in junction blocks and air manifolds for reliable electric and air connections. Inside the VHD cab, a console mounting plate provides room for pass-throughs and wiring harnesses without disassembling any cab components.
Volvo will also help vocational fleets respond to bids and other sudden equipment needs by giving dealers access to 1,000 VHDs for long- and short-term rentals.
Other vocational features for the VHD include customized warranties with coverage based on the truck's actual application. Volvo will also introduce a real-time remote diagnostic program with the VHD that will allow Volvo factory engineers to run diagnostic tests on vehicles at fleet shop locations. Technical help is available 24 hours a day.
The new VHD, which will be sold as a 2002 model, replaces the Volvo WG and Autocar vocational trucks and tractors.
Commercial production of the new model started last month and will be available at U.S., Canadian and Mexican Volvo dealers in late September. The VHD will also be sold in Colombia, Venezuela and other export markets.
Model: Volvo VHD Cab: Galvanized high strength steel, welded BBC: 113.6 in. Wheelbase: 134 - 320 in. Engine: Volvo VE 345, 345 hp. @ 1,800 rpm, 1,350 lb.-ft. @ 1,100 rpm Transmission: Eaton Fuller RTO-14908LL, 10-speed Front Axle: Meritor FL941, 18,800-lb. cap. Front Suspension: Multileaf, 18,800-lb. cap.
Rear Axles Single: Meritor RS23-186, 23,000-lb. cap. Tandem: Volvo T-Ride VBT4012R, 40,000-lb. cap.
Rear Suspensions Single: Multileaf, 22,500-lb. cap. Tandem: Volvo T-Ride, 2-leaf parabolic, 40,000-lb. cap. Antilock Brakes: Meritor WABCO, 4 channel Brakes: 16.5 x 6 in. front, 16.5 x 7 in. rear Frame: Heat-treated alloy steel, 11.81 x 3.54 x .31 in. Fuel Tank: 70 gal. left hand, steel, 22-in. diameter Wheels: 22.5 x 9.00 steel disc front, 22.5 x 8.25 steel disc rear Tires: Michelin 315/80R22.5 L PXZY-1 front, 11R22.5 G XZE rear
Lord. Corp. says its Motion Master seat system will be available on Seats Inc. truck seats beginning this fall. The Parallelogram product line is first to feature Motion Master on El Camino, Summit XLT and Summit DLX seat models.
Renting trailers just got easier with Transport International Pool's TIP FastLane service, a Web-based over-the-road trailer reservation resource. Customers simply go to www.tiptrailers.com and click on TIP FastLane to reserve equipment online 24/7.
