VIDEO: Volvo's record-setting drag truck

How can a truck maker prove that its production-vehicle technology is up to the task? How about by breaking some speed records? Volvo Trucks' The Iron Knight, driven by Boije Ovebrink, recently set the mark for trucks at 500 and 1000 meters. The  company credits an expert team for finding innovative ways of uniting technology with design. 

"This shows that our I-Shift Dual Clutch transmission has enormous potential and that it does not let you down under extreme conditions. The fact that the world record-breaker uses the very same gearbox that is found in our series-built FH trucks is something that we're really proud of," says Claes Nilsson, President and CEO of Volvo Trucks.

With an average speed of 105 mph and a time of 21.29 seconds, The Iron Knight beat the international speed record for 1000 meters from a standing start. It also beat the corresponding record for the 500-meter distance, at 81.6 mph and 13.71 seconds. The record run was carried out at a closed track in northern Sweden. At the time of publication, the records are being reviewed by the FIA, the international motor sport association.

Ovebrink, who has more than 30 years' experience of both car and truck racing, has previously beaten five speed records and in 1994 was European Truck Racing Champion.

"Volvo Trucks' The Iron Knight can be summarized in one single word: perfection. It's beautiful to look at and is an unparalleled powerhouse when you floor the accelerator,” says Boije Ovebrink.

Powered by a 2400 hp, mid-mounted engine unit with a water-cooled intercooler and four turbochargers, The Iron Knight hit a top speed of 171.5 mph during the record runs.