Get FinancingVolvo Trucks Updates Its VNX Series With Performance, Comfort & Connectivity Features
Volvo Trucks takes a well-rounded approach to its rugged, heavy-duty VNX series of trucks by not only going for maximum power and durability, but also making sure to cover comfort and safety. The company recently announced that its new VNX series goes above and beyond in all of those categories by offering up a truck line with up to 605 horsepower and 2,050 pounds-foot (2,779 newton meters) of torque built for use in logging, hauling heavy equipment, and other heavy-duty applications. The VNX series fits in perfectly alongside the VNR series and VNL series, which are designed for regional hauling and long haul trucking, respectively.
Putting The Heavy In Heavy-Duty
The VNX series is powerful and versatile to the core. The VNX 300 comes in a day cab configuration, the VNX 400 has a flat-roof sleeper, and the VNX 740 sports a 70-inch sleeper for long-haul operations. They are available in 6x4 tandem, 8x4 tandem, and 8x6 tridem setups, and offer an approved gross rate combination weight (GCWR) rating of between 125,000 and 160,000 pounds (56,699 and 72,575 kilograms), though that number can go as high as 225,000 pounds (102,058 kilograms) with special approval and the necessary parts.
When it comes to the engine and overall powertrain, the standard configuration packs a Volvo D13 engine with up to 500 horsepower and 1,850 pounds-foot (2,508 newton meters) of torque with either a 13-speed or 14-speed Volvo I-Shift automated manual transmission (AMT). If you want to add some extra power, you can opt for the Cummins X15 Performance Series engine and Eaton Ultra Shift Plus or manual transmission, which will get you up to those 605 horsepower and 2,050 pounds-foot (2,779 newton meter) torque figures.
Safety & Comfort
While performance is always nice, you also want to make sure that your driver and anyone else outside of the vehicle are safe as possible during operation. The VNX series uses high-strength steel in its cab design and comes with a rollover airbag, which ensures that it meets and exceeds rollover requirements and cab safety tests. It also takes advantage of Volvo Enhanced Stability Technology (VEST), which includes an electronic stability control system designed to prevent jackknifing, rollovers, and other situations where the driver loses control of the vehicle.
Where comfort is concerned, Volvo redesigned the VNX series interior to help drivers keep going during lengthier operation. The dashboard and the included 5-inch (127-millimeter) color information display give the driver all the information they need on-the-fly without having to look away from the road for extended periods. Volvo also placed controls in easier-to-reach and more ergonomic-friendly positions to help reduce driver fatigue.
Connectivity Solutions
Volvo has been making a big push with its Uptime Centers recently, and the VNX series will be able to take full advantage of the company’s connectivity services tied to its uptime initiatives. This includes Remote Diagnostics and Remote Programming. Remote Diagnostics is all about gathering as much information about a truck’s “health” in order to set up predictive maintenance schedules and speed up the repair process. Remote Programming is designed to deliver updates over the air without having to bring the truck into a shop.
Source: Volvo Trucks North America
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