Volvo Unveils Updated Heavy-Duty Truck Range Focusing On Safety And Efficiency
Revolutionising haulage for a better country.
By Syazwan Bahri — 29 Nov 2024, 03:28 PM
Volvo Trucks Malaysia has just revealed its newly updated line of heavy-duty trucks
Anna Engblom, the managing director of Volvo Trucks Southeast Asia and Japan, emphasised that the launch of these new trucks demonstrates Volvo's dedication to boosting productivity and safety in the transportation industry.
During the press conference, she highlighted Volvo Trucks' core values of safety, quality, and environmental care, stating that the company is committed to providing solutions that enhance safety for everyone involved in the transportation sector.
The launch event was attended by prominent figures such as Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister, and Niklas Wiberg, the Swedish Ambassador to Malaysia.
The new range of heavy-duty trucks features aerodynamic design upgrades, enhanced driveline systems, improved driver environment, and intelligent safety systems for Volvo's signature FH, FM, and FMX models
One of the key improvements is the aerodynamic design of the Globetrotter cab, which can boost fuel efficiency by up to 9%. This translates to significant cost savings for businesses and a reduced environmental impact.
In addition, Volvo has made safety a top priority by including Forward Collision Warning and automatic emergency braking as standard features. To further enhance safety, the trailer parking brake is now automatically engaged whenever the truck's parking brake is activated.
For long hauls, the I-See cruise control system helps optimise fuel consumption and reduce driver fatigue. This intelligent system analyses the road ahead and adjusts the truck's speed and gear changes accordingly, ensuring a smoother and more efficient journey.
The Volvo FH and FM truck models were recently awarded the highest possible safety rating — five stars — by Euro NCAP
Engblom mentioned in the press conference that this is the first time that Euro NCAP assessed heavy-duty trucks.
"It is the first time ever Euro NCAP assessed the safety of heavy-duty trucks. This further reinforces our position as a leader in safety, the bedrock of trust among our customers," said Engblom.
Euro NCAP's safety tests for the Volvo FH and FM trucks focused on three main areas. First, they looked at features that promote safe driving, like systems that monitor the driver and help them maintain safe speeds. Second, they assessed how well the trucks avoid collisions, including those that occur head-on or during low-speed manoeuvres. Finally, they evaluated the information available to emergency responders after a crash, ensuring they could quickly and safely access and assist occupants.
Here are some of the safety features present on the updated platform:
Volvo's Dynamic Steering system helps stabilise the truck in various conditions, while the optional Camera Monitoring System (CMS) improves visibility and eliminates deadly blind spots which are notorious for causing incidents.
The camera employs infrared technology for better night vision and reduces blind spots around the truck. These features, along with LED lighting, make driving safer in low-light conditions.
The CMS, available in 2025, will further improve fuel efficiency and overall safety.
Volvo also ensured that the company is aiming to achieve sustainability commitments
Volvo is committed to sustainability, designing its new heavy-duty trucks to meet Euro 5 emission standards. This helps businesses reduce their environmental impact and improve air quality.
These trucks support Malaysia's goals for a greener transportation sector, as outlined in the Low Carbon Mobility Blueprint 2021-2030. By offering these low-emission trucks, Volvo helps businesses achieve their sustainability targets and contribute to a cleaner Malaysia.
