Volvo Offers Details On New VNL’s Updated D13 Engine & I-Shift Transmission

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Volvo says the new VNL’s variable-displacement oil pump can adapt its output to match engine requirements, helping maintain optimal oil pressure and preventing excess oil flow. (Image courtesy of Volvo.)

Volvo Trucks North America recently provided insights into improvements it made in the new Volvo VNL’s D13 engine and I-Shift automated manual transmission. Volvo says these enhancements and the truck’s retooled aerodynamics help achieve a fuel efficiency gain of up to 10%, extending the VNL’s already class-leading fuel efficiency.

Volvo VNL Models & Configurations

The Volvo VNL, which was first introduced in 1996, is currently available in 300, 440, 640, 660, 840, and 860 models. Customers can specify their VNL trucks in day cab, mid-roof sleeper, and full-height sleeper configurations, as well as in Core, Edge, Edge Black, and Ultimate exterior and interior trim levels. Volvo also created a new online VNL configurator to help customers view the features and benefits of each trim level and cab option and inspect the interior and exterior. 

“A Quantum Leap Forward”

Volvo Trucks North America President Peter Voorhoeve says Volvo poured seven years into the all-new VNL, the result being a 90% redesign of the truck and the formation of the platform for all future powertrain solutions. 

“Setting the new standard for the North American trucking industry, these efficiency improvements represent not only a quantum leap forward in the way our customers do business, but also in our collective efforts to reduce carbon emissions,” says Voorhoeve. “A 10% savings in a nearly 300,000 Class 8 truck market would equate to the same carbon reductions delivered by 30,000 battery-electric Class 8 trucks. Efficiency gains in our all-new Volvo VNL are crucial to our 3-pillar strategy for decarbonizing heavy-duty transportation.” 

The Redesigned D13 Engine

The VNL’s 6-cylinder, in-line D13 is available in options from 405 to 500 horsepower (300 to 370 kilowatts) and three torque ratings from 1,750 to 1,950 pounds-foot (2,373 to 2,644 newton-meters). 

New engine enhancements include the use of smaller needle control valves in the fuel injectors and an improved 7-wave piston. Volvo says the piston features a shorter piston height and a longer connecting rod, resulting in more efficient combustion, increased engine longevity, and other benefits. 

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Volvo says to enable 30% faster shifting speeds for the I-Shift transmission engineers redefined algorithms, reduced clutch throw, and introduced an enhanced clutch brake system. (Image courtesy of Volvo.)

Engineers also implemented optimizations to the D13’s turbo compounding unit and turbocharger, including adding insulation and employing a smaller compressor and turbine wheel. Benefits include minimized heat loss, increased efficiency, and more effective recovery of surplus energy to convert it into usable power. 

Volvo built in an innovative variable-displacement oil pump with adjustable vanes that maintain optimal oil pressure but prevent excess oil flow, bolstering fuel economy and minimizing wear and tear. 

An Even Faster I-Shift 

Volvo says the VNL’s updated I-Shift transmission provides up to 30% faster shifting speeds compared to the previous version thanks to a thorough overhaul of its software, electronics, clutch mechanisms, and precision engineering. 

“Vehicle efficiency transcends mere engine performance; it encompasses the synergy between various components, where the transmission plays a pivotal role,” says Duane Tegels, Volvo Trucks North America product marketing manager. “The transmission's ability to optimize gear shifts, reduce energy loss, and harmonize power delivery significantly influences overall vehicle efficiency, showcasing that a holistic approach beyond the engine is vital in achieving optimal performance and fuel economy.”