For most haulage operations, the most efficient answer is a Volvo FM. Now each new Volvo FM will use world-first technology to get the job done quicker and more easily.
It can use clever communication to save fuel and stay on the road when your operation needs it. Loading and unloading too, can be simplified and speeded up by intelligent devices.
And last but not least, a revolutionary new steering system can change the experience of daily driving.
World news in steering and handling
Possibly the biggest steering innovation since servo assistance was introduced in the 1960s, Volvo Dynamic Steering radically improves the experience of steering a truck. It’s a speed-dependent form of servo assisted steering that takes the strain out of manoeuvring the truck at low speeds. It also filters out the negative effects of uneven road surfaces – cancelling the kick felt in the wheel when driving over a pothole.
In practice, the optional steering can be managed with as little as one finger, smoothly and precisely. At high speeds it increases directional stability, but the biggest benefits are at low speeds where steering assistance is greatest. This is noticeable when turning or reversing fully-laden. It offers greater comfort and reduces stress and strain on the driver.
Completely new suspension
Handling in the new Volvo FM is significantly improved by its new suspension system. This includes new shock absorbers, new parabolic front springs and suspension geometry. Whilst the new rear air suspensions have the anti-roll bar now positioned in front of the drive axle, which reduces the torsional forces into the frame, resulting in better stability and steering control. The new position gives further operational benefits when it comes to coupling position on drawbars and nice clean rear overhang for tippers tipping into tarmac paving machines.
On an open road, the new truck feels surprisely sporty to drive. A sensation that’s also reinforced by the comfort and precision that comes with the option of Volvo Dynamic Steering. The combined effects bring a dramatic change to both steering and handling.
Meeting Euro 6
The Euro-5 driveline in the Volvo FM provides outstanding performance and driveability. Thanks to improved Selective Catalytic Reduction technology and a number of other technological improvements, these qualities have been maintained in the Euro-6 driveline. Both the D11 and D13 drivelines will meet Euro-6 in the new Volvo FM.
The new Volvo FM has also lost some weight. This has involved optimising the trucks for their applications using improvements in materials, manufacturing methods and design criteria. For a Volvo FM 4×2 Euro-6 tractor, the net result can be a reduction of up to 75kgs.
Save up to 5 % fuel with I-See
Advancing its reputation for fuel efficiency, the new Volvo FM is available with the latest fuel saving technology, I-See. Working hand in hand with I-Shift to manage your speed and gear changes. I-See uses information about the road gradient to maximise fuel efficiency. And if it doesn’t have the necessary information in its memory, it can now automatically download the data from he I-See database.
Keep saving with Fuel Advice
With this new service, fuel savings in the new Volvo FM can now be sustained indefinitely. Using a personal fuel coach to analyse driving patterns, Fuel Advice provides the continual follow-up and drivers advice to keep saving fuel. You can take out a subscription for as little as one truck and see your return on investment in the form of lower monthly fuel expenses. Fuel Advice helps you to save up to 5 per cent fuel.
100 % uptime promise
Equipped with Telematics Gateway, the new Volvo FM makes it possible to take out the New Volvo Gold Contract providing 100 per cent uptime. This means the workshop are much more proactive – remotely monitoring the condition of the truck’s vital parts and adjusting its maintenance schedule according to their true status and your operation.
Another feature that can help ensure maximum uptime is Volvo Action Service On Call. In the event of a breakdown the driver is in direct contact with the Volvo Action Service call centre at the press of a button. Thanks to integrated connectivity, the relevant help can immediately be dispatched to the exact location, getting the truck quickly back on the road.
Stronger and infinitely more flexible
The new Volvo FM is designed for maximum flexibility, whatever your operation we have a model to suit:
Tractors: 4×2, 6×2 pusher and tag, 6×4 with steel or air suspension.
Rigids: 4×2, 6×2 pusher and tag with rear steer option, 8×2 tag, 6×4 and 8×4 with steel or air suspension and 8×4 pusher or tag tridems.
To assist with load distribution and crane installation there is a range of front axle options up to 10tonne capacity. There is also a new load indicator available that can be read through the optional work remote outside the truck to ensure the correct weight distribution when being loaded ensuring legal axle weights and saving time.
The work remote can be used for many functions such as air suspension, PTO, remote engine and work light controls; it can also be used in conjunction with the bosy to provide tipping and tail lift control, saving valuable time and reducing driver stress when loading and unloading the vehicle.
There is a full range of wheelbases and chassis heights from low height tractors and rigids for maximum volume applications to high chassis for maximum ground clearance 8x4s. When it comes to cabs there are a choice of day, sleeper, Globetrotter and Globetrotter LXL depending on model – there is even a flat roof sleeper cab transporter – whatever your applications there is an FM model to meet your needs.
Making each day run smoother
Many aspects of the new truck have been developed to help drivers become more effective. Take the remote control that saves time when loading, and remembers up to five different loading bays. Or My Truck, the world’s first smartphone app to let drivers set their desired cab temperature or check dashboard controls remotely.
The cab too, is more attractive. There’s a completely new instrument panel with a new steering wheel, electronic park brake and the option of dash-integrated controls for I-Shift – making it easier to move around inside. There are better storage spaces to help manage paperwork and personal items. And a new driver’s seat with increase leg-room and comfort.
All this and more make the new Volvo FM a far friendlier place to spend your working days.