Volvo Trucks incoming FH16 most powerful yet

VOLVO Trucks Australia has announced that it will be bringing its highest horsepower truck ever to Australia, after a successful launch in Sweden in January this year.

The new FH16 range features the most powerful engine released for on-highway use by the Swedish truck maker, producing as much as 780hp (581kw) and 3800Nm in its top state of tune.

Volvo’s D17 engine features power options ranging from 600hp (448kW) and 3000Nm, to 700hp (522kW) and 3400Nm and right up to the range-topping 780hp (581kW) and 3800Nm option suitable for serious heavy haulage operations.

Up until this point, Volvo has offered the FH16 range with a 16.0-litre engine producing maximum power of 700hp (522kW) and 3350Nm which has proven popular as a serious highway performer.

The new 17.0-litre D17 engine is based on the proven 16-litre D16, but features an increased cylinder bore, low friction cylinder liners, wave top pistons and improved fuel injection system.

The result is a Euro 6 certified powertrain that is cleaner and more fuel efficient despite its gargantuan power output, while also boasting improved driveability and engine response.

Not only will the new D17 pull harder than ever uphill, but it will be safer going down too. Volvo Trucks says the engine brake power across the new range is stronger than ever enabling faster gearshifts and less wear on service brakes.

“It really is a masterpiece and the result of world-class engineering,” said Volvo Trucks global product manager Marcos Weingaertner.

“When climbing steep grades on a road with maximum loads, you don’t want to get stuck with too little torque and power.

“That is why we have focused all our efforts on making the D17 engine very powerful, reliable and responsive.”

According to Volvo Trucks Australia, the D17 engine will produce its maximum rated power using hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), a renewable diesel alternative that the firm fills all new trucks with before delivering to customers.

“Highly efficient drivetrains capable of using alternative fuels will be a key part of our path to net zero emissions,” said Volvo Group Australia director of product and performance Shayne Commons.

“More power gives us the option of gearing our trucks for more efficiency on highway, more

torque means less gear changes and more top gear time.

“However, for the person behind the wheel, the performance of the D17 engine in the new

FH16 will impress, driver feedback so far has been overwhelmingly positive, especially in

regard to holding road speed in undulating terrain.”

Volvo Trucks Australia has confirmed the new FH16 with D17 engine option will be available for order in Australia from July, giving transport operators unparalleled horsepower for heavy on-highway applications.