Volvo Trucks has announced that it is upgrading its range of extra heavy trucks with new technologies and advanced camera monitoring
The Volvo FH, FM and FMX models will undergo the enhancements as part of the company’s efforts to optimise its trucks, achieving greater efficiency, safety and productivity for demanding businesses. These familiar faces will receive a mild refresh with a new Volvo Iron mark and will go into production in Europe during the first half of 2024. In South Africa, customers will gain access to the new-look models by fourth quarter of 2024. In addition, the Volvo FH Electric – recently selected as International Truck of the Year 2024 – is becoming even more energy-efficient.
Roger Alm, president of Volvo Trucks, commented, “The extra heavy Volvo trucks are icons in the industry and with the latest upgrades I am confident that we will further strengthen our position in this segment. Our skilled engineers have done a tremendous job in fine-tuning our heavy-duty trucks for reduced CO2 emissions, improved safety and even better productivity and customer satisfaction.”
Waldemar Christensen, MD of Volvo Trucks South Africa, added, “Regardless of which powertrain a customer chooses – electric, gas or diesel – all variants of Volvo's extra heavy trucks will benefit from a high level of efficiency, safety and driving experience.”
Improved safety and fuel efficiency
For improved aerodynamics and improved safety, Volvo Trucks is adopting an advanced new Camera Monitoring System. Available locally as an option, it will replace traditional exterior mirrors and provide drivers with a wider visual field.
Christensen explained, “The camera system has a positive impact on the driver’s visibility in rainy and dark conditions, as well as in direct sunlight and when driving in tunnels. When pulling a trailer, the camera system also has an auto-panning function that zooms in on the turning trailer. This feature will be particularly relevant in local driving conditions where trucks often travel on unlit roads and challenging weather conditions.”
Other updates on the Volvo FH, FM and FMX models include:
• Updated brakes with Volvo patented drag-free brake discs, pads and hubs;
• Volvo’s I-See technology has been refined to save energy and carbon emissions, using a cloud based topographic map to optimise the driving and enabling more driving time in cruise control mode;
• Upgraded user-friendly infotainment system that can be personalised depending on individual needs;
• Improved sound system, available with six premium high-quality speakers, a new power amplifier and a subwoofer;
• A new built-in navigation system will be offered with improved maps adapted to truck-specific needs;
• An integrated microwave oven and USB-C power outlets as part of interior upgrades;
• Volvo Trucks’ My Business Apps, a subscription-based service that enables customers to download business-related apps from different providers, has been introduced to more markets;
• The new Tire Monitoring Service gives fleet operators a complete view of the truck and trailer through Volvo Connect.
