Designed to increase efficiency, safety and comfort while maximizing freight capacity, the new Volvo Autohauler (VAH) includes a short bumper-to-back-of-cab (BBC) dimension of 113.6 in. and a lower chassis height than standard models.
The vehicle, from Volvo Trucks North America (VTNA), is a day-cab model featuring an axle-forward configuration and a clean top-of-frame behind the cab to make body mounting quick and trailer hook-up easy, the company said.
“The new Volvo Autohauler is designed to maximize loading space for our customers while incorporating the latest in engine technology,” said Ron Huibers, Volvo Trucks North America senior vice president, sales and marketing. “The lower chassis reduces the overall height of the truck, allowing a car, pick-up or minivan to be positioned over the cab to maximize the efficiency of every delivery.”
The VAH has an EPA 2010 engine with Volvo’s no regen selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology. Engine options include the Volvo D11, with 325 to 405 hp. and 1,250 to 1,450 lbs.-ft. of torque, or the Volvo D13, producing 375 to 500 hp. and 1,450 to 1,750 lbs.-ft. of torque.
It also features Volvo’s ATO 12-spd. I-Shift transmission. I-Shift is an intelligent transmission system that monitors changes in grade, vehicle speed, acceleration, torque demand, weight and air resistance and then selects the appropriate gear for the situation.
There is also an optional Eaton Fuller FRO 10-spd. manual transmission.
“Our goal with this new auto hauler was to reduce lead time and increase efficiency for auto transporters,” Volvo Trucks marketing product manager Wade Long said. “We worked closely with customers and truck body builders to understand and meet their needs. Volvo Trucks is confident that the VAH has the design, engineering and performance that the demanding vehicle transport market has been waiting for.”
The cab is quiet and spacious with an ergonomic instrument panel with controls within easy reach for drivers and additional space between the seats for additional storage, VTNA said.
The set-forward front axle, at 29.1 in., is a Volvo VF14 deep drop axle with a parabolic leaf spring front suspension. It has a 14,600 lbs. capacity. The rear axles are from ArvinMeritor, the MT-40 14X3C Amboid with 40,000-lb. capacity.
The truck includes a low-height Volvo air suspension with 38,000-lb. capacity on the rear.
