7491 Volvo Roadtalk Autumn06_2

ROADTALK
Autumn 2006
Volvo Trucks Magazine
EXCLUSIVE
NEW EXTENDED CAB
LAUNCH
OUTSTANDING
VOLVO FH16 FUEL EFFICIENCY
13 LITRES!
THE NEW VOLVO FH AND VOLVO FM
SHIFT INTO GEAR
THE NEW MORE POWERFUL I-SHIFT
2
CONTENTS
IN THIS ISSUE
VOLVO TALK
NEWS
A Year of Excitement!
3
New Volvo FH and Volvo FM
report for duty
4
Four percent fuel improvement and
seven days more on the road every year
6
Volvo’s new generation gets thumbs
up from the transport media
7
Company chief declares another record
year for Volvo Trucks
7
Prestigious award goes to Volvo
8
Customers welcome the new generation
Volvo Trucks
9
Volvo stars at Trucks in Action
10
Volvo launches extended Globetrotter
XL Cab
11
Four new dealerships for Volvo Trucks
12
Volvo Trucks are ideal for new 26 metre
B-Double legislation
SNAPSHOT
10
Marrs moves Queensland
OPERATOR PROFILES
12
Crossing Borders
14
Volvo Fuel Miser
VOLVO ACTION SERVICE
16
Volvo Action Service now on call
across the country
COMMUNITY & ENVIRONMENT
16
Australia welcomes the Volvo Ocean Race
to Melbourne
SAFETY
2006 is set to be an exciting year
for Volvo Trucks in Australia as we
launch new products that will facilitate
significant improvements to our customers
profitability and competitiveness.
Let’s face it that is an exciting prospect
for any road transport operator.
In this issue of Roadtalk we will highlight the new Volvo FH and
Volvo FM equipped with the new 13-litre engine and automated
I-Shift gearbox rated for 70 tonne GCM. The Volvo FH520 is a
520 hp-machine offering the performance of a larger engine while
delivering operating costs you’d expect in a much smaller truck.
“We have always
believed in providing
the best possible comfort
and safety for drivers”
More important is what these new trucks can do for your
business. In many cases our new 13-litre with I-Shift will offer
a four percent fuel improvement. In demanding B-double
operation, a four percent fuel saving per year would mean that
an operator could justify paying up to $24,000 more for a safer,
more fuel efficient and economical prime mover such as the
new Volvo FH and Volvo FM.
The new Volvo FH and Volvo FM offer greater uptime thanks
to longer service intervals and less need for preventive
maintenance. These benefits along with many more advantages
will be covered in this issue of Roadtalk.
We have always believed in providing the best possible comfort
and safety for drivers and as a natural consequence we now offer
a unique cab variant developed by our engineers in Australia in
collaboration with our cab factory in northern Sweden.
The Globetrotter XL cab has been extended by 245 mm
facilitating an excellent sleeping compartment while still being
26 metre B-double compliant.
18
Safety the key to new Volvo cab
It just goes to prove that with a Volvo truck you can combine
passion with a healthy business.
19
Safety check first - save time later
Enjoy the reading.
VOLVO RANGE
20
Volvo Range
Anton Freiesleben
Senior Vice President
Volvo Trucks
AUTUMN 2006
3
NEWS
NEW VOLVO FH AND VOLVO FM REPORT FOR DUTY
New generation Volvo FH and Volvo FM models
featuring higher performance, increased efficiency
and better comfort have arrived in Australia.
The new engine features overhead camshaft and four
valve technology and is the first Volvo engine to utilise
Closed Crankcase Ventilation (CCV), which further
reduces vehicle emissions and pollution.
The fourth generation Volvo FH and Volvo FM models
represent a quantum leap in terms of technology, fuel
economy, safety, environmental compatibility as well as
productivity and are the cleanest and most economical
trucks ever launched by Volvo Trucks.
Along with an all-new engine, the new trucks also
feature the next generation of Volvo’s I-Shift intelligent
transmission, which is smaller, lighter and stronger.
Volvo Trucks’ Senior Vice-President, Mr. Anton
Freiesleben says the new Volvo FH and Volvo FM
represent Volvo’s commitment to delivering the industry’s
best technology, productivity and performance.
“Many of the Volvo FH and Volvo FM changes will not be
apparent on the surface but drivers and operators will
notice significant improvements in driveability, comfort,
ease of operation and efficiency,” said Mr. Freiesleben.
The new trucks are powered by an all new 13-litre
engine, capable of being configured to meet and exceed
both Euro 4 as well as the stringent Euro 5 standard,
which doesn’t come into affect until 2010.
While boasting lower exhaust emissions, the all-new
13-litre engine delivers more power and better driveability
as well as strong fuel economy.
The cabs of the new Volvo FH and Volvo FM models
have been further refined to create a more comfortable
and safer working environment.
The cabin boasts an improved driver’s seat with a more
comfortable sitting position and better lateral support.
External rear view mirrors have been re-designed for
increased visibility and field of vision.
New easier to read instruments have been used while
there is also increased storage space and better internal
lighting to help reduce fatigue and improve driver comfort.
A major safety innovation is the new parking brake alert
system, which emits a unique audio alert and flashing
symbol on the dash if the parking brake is not activated,
reducing the risk of the truck rolling away if the driver
fails to engage the brake.
Sleeping accommodation has also been improved
with a more comfortable mattress.
The new Volvo FH and Volvo FM models represent an
investment by Volvo Trucks of more than $AUD 480 million.
NEW DESIGN
Globetrotter sign in
an attractive new design,
with a globe inserted
under the name. This is
a truck with attitude.
BETTER REAR-VIEW MIRRORS
Rear-view mirrors with larger field of
vision, with better curvature to improve
close-quarter vision. Makes it easier
to see pedestrians standing close to
the cab, thus improving safety.
BETTER COMFORT
New bed with high-quality
coil-sprung mattress
featuring pocket springs.
More comfortable seat softer seat cushion
and more body-hugging
shape for better support
for the back and sides.
Ventilation in the backrest
as an option.
CAB NEWS
Brighter light in all the reading lamps.
New light sources in both the front and rear
cabinets. More switches, DIN slots.
New front shelf and the option of an
additional switch panel. Integrated phone
in FH (optional in FM).
NEW COLOURS
Two new interior colours, light
sand-yellow (FH) and blue (FM).
ENGINE: D13A
Power output up to 250bhp. Displacement
12.8 litres. Engine torque up to 2500 Nm.
Power take-off 650 Nm. Weight 115kg.
Quieter idling. Oil-change intervals. The engine
has been test-driven about 2.8 million km.
I-SHIFT PERFORMANCE
Gross combination weight 130 tonnes.
Can handle 2500 Nm. 12 forward gears plus
4 reverse gears. The new generation of I-Shift
is stronger, shorter, lighter, quieter and more
economical than its predecessor was.
Maintains the same high quality standard
and is as reliable. New control unit and
software to suit different applications.
4
NEWS
FOUR PERCENT FUEL IMPROVEMENT AND SEVEN DAYS MORE
ON THE ROAD EVERY YEAR
TWO FACTORS WHICH CAN IMPROVE YOUR BOTTOM LINE BY 60 PERCENT
Because trucks are really production machines the key
point for any transport company must be: How is this
investment going to affect my bottom line?
Volvo Trucks has developed a business case study based
on a demanding B-double Sydney-Melbourne express line
haul operation hauling a 62.5 tonne GCM and completing
one trip per day.
In order to illustrate the improvements in the new Volvo FH,
we have compared the previous Volvo FH12 500
with manual gearbox and the new 13-litre Volvo FH520
equipped with automated I-Shift gearbox.
There will always be variations due to the unique nature
of road transport operations however all operators will
enjoy the fuel improvements and the increased uptime.
Four percent fuel efficiency improvement
Why has the fuel economy improved and how much can
you expect?
The trucks have many technical innovations starting with
the new 13-litre engine.
The new powerplant features an increase in the diesel
injection pressure from 1800 to 2000 bar for extreme
atomisation as well as a higher peak combustion pressure
delivering a more complete fuel burn.
The D13 engine has been further optimised for Volvo’s low
rev. strategy with a 100-rpm reduction in the top end of its
economic speed. The engine’s massive torque of 2500 Nm
enables the truck to stay in top gear longer and operate at
lower revs with less gear changes. This also makes it
possible to specify the taller 3.09 rear axle ratio while
maintaining good hill climbing ability.
The new Volvo developed I-Shift delivers the best possible
match between engine and transmission. The computer
controlling the new I-Shift has three times more memory
and five times more processing power than the previous
standard setting I-Shift.
The I-Shift’s fuel optimised shifting program features an
Eco-roll function putting it into neutral when the engine
is not pulling utilising the kinetic energy of the vehicle.
This alone can deliver a one percent fuel saving, while
idling losses have been reduced by 0.3 Kw.
Most importantly, the gearbox never gets tired. While an
extremely skilled driver may keep up with the I-Shift –
they won’t be able to for long. Optimising shifts hour after
hour, day after day is no longer a task best achieved by
humans, particularly when every small mistake or delay in
shifting will increase fuel consumption.
With all this technical innovation
we completed a number of
practical fuel tests indicating
the likely improvement with
the Volvo FH520 I-Shift. In a
B-double tanker application the
result saw the D13 deliver 11
percent better fuel economy
against two other makes with
different vendor engines.
In-house Volvo
development of key
components like
engine and gearbox
secure the perfect
driveline match.
In triple road train operation the new Volvo D13 delivers
a four percent fuel economy improvement against the
previous Volvo D12 500 hp.
From these tests we feel comfortable claiming a likely four
percent reduction in fuel consumption and this is the
figure we have used in our Transport Economy Calculation.
Seven more days on the road thanks to lubrication
free chassis and longer oil change intervals
The new 13 litre models have been designed to spend
less time off the road and more time on it.
SYDNEY
Griffith
Young
5
NEWS
Wollongong
Goulburn
Nowra
Wagga
Wagga
CANBERRA
ACT
Echuca Wangaratta
Ronulla
Bendigo
VIC
Seymour
Albury
Batemans
Bay
Cooma
The end result is a massive 60 percent boost to the
bottom line with the new Volvo FH520 compared with
the Volvo FH12. While the Volvo FH12 would deliver a
$22,342 (5.3 percent margin) profit the Volvo FH520
would deliver an increase in profit to $35,815
(8.2 percent margin).
Mount
Hotham
MELBOURNE
Bairnsdale
On the other side of the ledger, the Volvo FH520’s four
percent improvement in fuel efficiency will increase the
profit by $5,790, while seven days less downtime will
deliver another $9,968.
Cann
River
The previous Volvo FH12 model required chassis
lubrication every 15,000 km and an engine oil change
every 30,000km. On the other hand the new Volvos no
longer require chassis lubrication and only need engine
oil changed every 45,000km.
This means that while the time required for preventive
maintenance on the Volvo FH12 in a 275,000 km/year
B-double operation was 102 hours per annum, the new
Volvo trucks in the same scenario now only require 42
hours preventive maintenance each year.
Assuming an efficient work day of eight hours this reduction
in maintenance time allows the new D13 to be on the road
generating income an extra seven days per year.
Icing on the cake: 300 kg reduced tare weight
Weight reductions in the new generation Volvo FH and
Volvo FM models amount to around 300kg compared
with the older Volvo FH12s and this means operators can
carry an extra 300 kg payload or carry more fuel staying
within legal weight limits. In every case the tare weight
reduction facilitates a better bottom line.
Transport Economy Calculation indicates a
profitability boost of up to 77 percent
Figure 1 shows the base figures used in our Transport
Economy Calculation for the Volvo FH12 500 hp
reference vehicle. Comparing the previous Volvo FH12
500 hp manual box with the new Volvo FH520 13 litre
with I-Shift we have depreciated both vehicles down to
zero over five years. The Volvo FH12 500 reference
vehicle is delivering a 5.3 percent profit margin
corresponding to an annual profit of $22,342.
The new purchase price of the Volvo FH520 will increase
the investment by 3-5 percent depending on the
specification while a slight increase in insurance, will eat
into profit by approximately $2,284 per year.
If the 300 kg tare weight reduction is utilised for carrying
more payload, the profit would further increase to
$39,645 (nine percent margin) representing a huge 77
percent increase compared to the Volvo FH12 500
reference vehicle (Figure 2).
As an additional bonus the new Volvo FH520 I-Shift
would reach Melbourne 16 minutes before the Volvo
FH12 500 thanks to improved engine and gearbox
performance.
Our goal with the new Volvo FM and Volvo FH was to
supply our customers with a truck that could make their
transport operation more profitable. We believe we’ve
achieved this target.
Input used in Transport Economy Calculation:
Volvo FH12 500 hp B-double reference vehicle
(including trailers): 275,420 km/year
Cost (per year)
Capital cost (7.5%/5 yrs)
Insurance
Annual registration
Service & Repair
Tyres
Fuel (1.79 km/l)
Driver wages
$94,059
$19,478
$6,118
$22,049
$24,242
$153,866
$82,626
Total Cost
$402,439
Revenue (per year)
$1.59/km @ 97% utilisation
Profit
$424,780
$22,342 = 5.3%
(Figure 1)
Bottom line improvement with new Volvo FH520 I-Shift vs FH12 500 reference vehicle:
Volvo FH12 500
New Volvo FH520 New Volvo FH520
New Volvo FH520 New Volvo FH520
Reference
3%+ chassis
price increase
…and +4%
fuel efficiency
(1.86 km/l)
…and 7 days
more uptime
(= +6,580 km/yr)
…and 300 kg
more payload
Bottom line Profit
$22,342
$20,057
$25,848
$35,815
$39,645
Bottom line profit
margin in %
5.3%
4.7%
6.1%
8.2%
9.0%
Profit margin
improvement/boost
-
-10.2%
+16%
+60%
+77%
(Figure 2)
6
NEWS
VOLVO’S NEW GENERATION GETS THUMBS
UP FROM THE TRANSPORT MEDIA
Transport writers are some of the toughest critics when
it comes to new models, but after the press launch of
the new Volvo FH and Volvo FM across some testing
on-highway conditions, the Australian and New Zealand
trucking press came away impressed.
The 400 kilometre test route from Brisbane down the
Cunningham Highway to Warwick and return via Toowoomba
and the Warrego Highway contains two of the best known
hills in Australia – the climb up Cunningham’s Gap
westbound and the descent down the Toowoomba Range
on the return leg.
I was amazed at how
comfortable the trucks
were to begin with
Steve Brooks, editor of
Diesel Magazine, was
full of praise for the
new D13A engine as
the replacement for
the long-serving D12D.
“The four 13 litre ratings offer substantial performance
gains over the 12 litre models and really give Volvo some
tremendous new possibilities, strengthened even further
by the more refined I-Shift automated transmission,”
said Brooks.
Brooks took the Volvo FH 520 Globetrotter B-double
combination over Cunningham’s Gap. “In full auto mode
the combination dropped back to fifth gear around
1700rpm while on the second eight-percent grade in
manual mode the Volvo FH 520 with less than 1000
kilometres under its belt showed an impressive capacity to
hold sixth gear at around 1300rpm, maintaining that gear
all the way to the top.”
New Zealand Truck & Driver editor, Wayne Munro, was quick
to proffer his impressions of the new Volvo truck range.
“Safety features coupled with power and performance give
the driver a real sense of stability,” Wayne says. “A truck
driver needs to feel in complete control of a vehicle at all
times and the Volvo models did that in all conditions,”
Monroe said.
Transport writers and the Volvo FH 520 at Press launch
ATN editor Tim Giles was similarly impressed with the
engine and transmission combination.
“The 13-litre engine definitely fills a need in the heavy truck
sector for Volvo Trucks. The available horsepower ratings
combined with the new I-Shift transmission will find plenty
of favour with drivers in all applications,” Tim says.
Truckin’ Life and Truck Australia editor Jim Gibson put the
vehicles through their paces in both auto and manual
mode and found the new I-Shift to be impressive.
“With 2500Nm of torque, the 13-litre pulled the 62 tonne
B-double quietly and without protest over the toughest
climbs. When the revs drop and maximum torque takes
hold on its flat torque curve the tacho needle drops off
slightly, then digs in tenaciously on the steep climbs,”
Gibson says.
Graham Smith, writer for the Herald Sun Working Wheels
section, was impressed with the comfort of the new Volvo
FH and Volvo FM trucks on the test drive.
“I was amazed at how comfortable the trucks were to
begin with. They are like a home away from home and
offer drivers features and comfort levels only car drivers
were offered until now,” Graham said.
Power Torque managing editor Chris Mullet commented on
driver benefits offered by the new engine and transmission.
“After two days driving the three models, we came away
very impressed. The shift quality of the new I-Shift really
gets the best from the new engine to the benefit of the
driver,” he says.
Transport Today technical editor, Barry Hatfield, says what
struck him most was how the new Volvos will suit drivers
of all experience.
“There is no doubt the driver
stands to be a major beneficiary
of Volvo’s new FH and Volvo
FM models.
After putting three engine
power ratings, new I-Shift
transmission capabilities and
enhanced braking software
to the test on steep climbs
and descents the press has
delivered its verdict.
(L to R) Volvo FM 440.
Steve Brooks, Editor Diesel Magazine.
7
NEWS
COMPANY CHIEF DECLARES
ANOTHER RECORD YEAR FOR
VOLVO TRUCKS
PRESTIGIOUS AWARD GOES TO VOLVO
To paraphrase a famous American singer,
Large Business.
it’s been a very good year.
That is certainly the message
that President and CEO of Volvo
Truck Corporation, Staffan
Jufors had when he visited
Australia recently for the launch
of the new Volvo FH and Volvo
FM models as well attending the
Melbourne Stopover of the Volvo
Ocean Race.
During a briefing with Australia’s
leading transport writers,
Mr Jufors revealed 2005
President and CEO of Volvo Truck
Corporation, Staffan Jufors
was another record year for
Volvo Trucks with the company
delivering a total of 103,696 trucks globally,
an increase of seven percent on 2004.
Volvo Commercial Vehicles Australia (VCVA) was
recently awarded the prestigious 2005 Swedish
Business in Australia Award for Long Term Success,
His Majesty King Carl XVI Gustaf together with Her
Majesty Queen Silvia of Sweden presented the award
at a Royal reception at the Sydney Opera House and it
was accepted on behalf of VCVA by Anton Freiesleben,
Senior Vice President Volvo Trucks.
On announcing the
motivation for the award,
Swedish Australian
Chamber of Commerce
President, Mr Lars
Sandahl Sorensen said
that Volvo Commercial
Vehicles Australia has
shown a strong performance on the Australian
market and employs 1350 people Australia-wide with
a turnover of $720 million.
Volvo is very
proud of its
Swedish heritage
North America was the engine room of the growth
according to Mr Jufors with strong demand for
heavy trucks in the USA and Canada.
“The first Volvo truck was imported into Australia in 1967,
and presently Volvo Trucks holds the number two position
among heavy duty truck manufacturers in Australia” said
Mr Sandahl Sorensen.
It was the highest number of deliveries ever
recorded in the history of the company in a year
which also saw the company’s sales in both South
America and Asia (including Australia) increase by
two percent, comprising 7,723 (7,580) and 17,678
(17,328) vehicles respectively.
“Volvo is very proud of its Swedish heritage and a strong
supporter of Swedish industry and culture in Australia.
Each year the company promotes Swedish culture to its
customers by taking them on trips to Sweden to visit the
Volvo Trucks’ factories and to experience the Swedish way
of life,” he added.
Mr Jufors underlined Volvo Trucks’ commitment to
a global strategy delivering total transport solutions
- not just trucks but an enhanced range of trucks as
well as aftersales and customer service.
“We are very pleased to give this award to a company that
is so strongly interconnected with the image of Sweden,
and that proudly promotes their core values of safety,
quality and environmental care,” he concluded.
“Our long term strategy is also to develop products
to suit local demand so that they are targeted to the
particular needs of markets,” said Mr Jufors.
“A good example is the extended Globetrotter XL cab
in Australia and our new American flagship, the Volvo
VT880, on the North American market,” he added.
He was pleased to report that both journalists and
customers in Europe have been very positive to the
new 13-litre engine with customers in particular
responding strongly to the new engines.
“Our customers have been very happy with the
smoother driving and the fact that Volvo is a reliable
partner,” said Mr Jufors.
“They also tell us that they are extremely satisfied
with Volvo trucks and that the I-Shift is a really
useful innovation,” he said.
(L to R) His Majesty King Carl XVI Gustaf, Her Majesty Queen Silvia of Sweden
and Anton Freiesleben
8
NEWS
CUSTOMERS
WELCOME THE
NEW GENERATION
VOLVO TRUCKS
Melbourne was certainly the
Anton Freiesleben, Senior Vice President Volvo Trucks welcoming guests to the dinner
centre of the universe when it
came to Volvo in February.
Not only was the Volvo Ocean Race
fleet in town for its three week
Australian stopover but Volvo Trucks
also held its customer launch for the
new generation Volvo FH and Volvo
FM in the Victorian capital.
The impressive new Volvo FH and
Volvo FM models had already captured
the hearts of the nation’s transport
press (see separate story) and the gala
customer launch would prove to be
similarly inspiring.
Guests enjoying the festivities of the evening
The launch was staged at the fascinating and
architecturally interesting Melbourne Museum on
Saturday 4th February where more than 270 guests
gathered to celebrate the arrival of the new trucks.
Magnus Olsson had the audience enthralled relating
stories of life on board the ocean flyers during an
interview like discussion with Peter Hertinge, President
and CEO Volvo Commercial Vehicles Australia.
Guests of honour including Staffan Jufors, the President
and CEO of Volvo Truck Corporation and Claes Svedberg,
President Volvo Trucks International Division and Swedish
Ambassador in Australia Karin Ehnbom-Palmquist joined
Volvo Trucks’ customers and dealers from around
Australia and New Zealand, along with the new CEO of
the ATA, Mr Stuart St Clair.
In what was a fabulous night of great food, conversation,
entertainment and dancing the new generation Volvo
trucks were given a glittering welcome to Australia.
On display at the museum for the glittering night were
the new Volvo FH520, Volvo FH480 and Volvo FM440.
With Volvo Ocean Race yachts in town the evening would
not have been complete without some tales from the high
seas and professional yachtsman and VOR competitor,
The impressive new
Volvo FH and Volvo FM
models had already
captured the hearts of the
nation’s transport press
9
NEWS
VOLVO STARS AT TRUCKS IN ACTION
The Biennial Trucks in Action is always one of the
highlights on the truck industry calendar and the 2006
expo staged as it always is at Lardner Park near
Warragul in Victoria’s Gippsland proved no different.
The only dynamic truck show in Australia, Trucks in Action
was this year staged from February 16 to 18 and allowed
customers to try the new machinery on a self contained
test course as well as viewing the many displays around
the rolling farmland of Lardner Park.
Volvo Trucks was there in force with the highlight being
the public debut of the new Volvo FH and Volvo FM
models as well as the unveiling of the new extended
Globetrotter XL cab. (See separate story)
The new Volvo FH and Volvo FM, which have just been
launched in Australia, were shown to the public for the
first time at Trucks in Action attracting enormous
attention across the three-day expo.
The all new 13-litre engine now featured in the Volvo FH
and Volvo FM, which is capable of being configured to
meet and exceed both Euro 4 as well as the stringent
Euro 5, aroused plenty of interest amongst customers
keen to find out more on the new generation “clean
engines” ahead of the introduction of new emission rules
here in 2007 and 2010 respectively.
While boasting lower exhaust emissions, the all-new
13-litre engine delivers more power and better driveability
as well as strong fuel economy.
Along with an all-new engine, the new trucks also
featured the smaller, lighter and stronger new generation
Volvo I-Shift intelligent transmission.
The fully restored vintage Volvo trucks included a 1980
Volvo F12, a 1974 Volvo G88 and a 1973 Volvo F86, the
trucks that established Volvo’s reputation for reliability,
safety and performance in Australia and around the world.
The Volvo G88 was purchased new from CMV in
Adelaide in 1974 by the Electricity Trust of South
Australia and stayed with the organisation for 20 years
before CMV purchased and restored the truck in 1994.
Australian National railways owned and operated the
Volvo F86 for 16 years before it was bought back by
CMV and restored as part of its vintage collection.
The Volvo F12 is the newest of the vintage trucks on
display working as a line haul prime mover with Fletchers
in South Australia, for 18 years before being purchased
by CMV in 1998 for restoration and display at the
Birdwood National Motor Museum in the Adelaide Hills.
This year’s Trucks in Action marked the first Warragul
event for new local Volvo Trucks dealer, CMV Truck and
Bus - Gippsland, which took over from long time dealer
South Eastern Trucks in December 2005. Always an
important show for the CMV Group, the new dealer made
Trucks in Action even more significant for the
organisation this year.
Over the three days of this year’s Trucks in Action, more
than 40,000 people poured through the gates marking
another highly successful Warragul event.
Volvo FH 520
A special Volvo Ocean Race edition of the flagship Volvo
FH 16 Globetrotter was another major part of the Volvo
Trucks display at Warragul.
The Volvo FH 16’s powerful driveline offers low running
costs and high driving comfort.
The versatile and practical Volvo FM9 8x4 was also
featured on the Volvo display at Trucks in Action.
The Volvo FM9 8x4 twin steer has found strong favour,
particularly with market gardening and produce transport
as a result of its 11-tonne front axle rating, five tonnes
greater than a conventional single front axle
configuration.
The Volvo FM9 8x4 featured at Trucks in Action was
powered by a 380hp engine mated to a 12-speed I-Shift
transmission with air bag suspension on the rear axles
with a single day cab, and was configured as a cab
chassis truck.
Another attraction was a display of superb restored
vintage Volvo trucks, courtesy of Melbourne and
Gippsland Volvo dealer CMV Truck and Bus Pty Ltd.
Volvo G88, Volvo F12 and Volvo F86
10
NEWS
VOLVO LAUNCHES EXTENDED GLOBETROTTER XL CAB
Volvo has launched a new locally developed extended
a safer environment for the driver.
“There is also a trend towards two up driving in long haul
interstate operations which in itself has driven the need for
a larger cabin as the sleeping environment needs to be
more removed from the driving environment to create an
isolated rest area,” said Mr Cowell.
The new extended cab features a wider 945 mm sleeper
bunk without compromising space in the driving cab,
answering the increasing occupational health and
safety demands.
“Clearly the demand for this type of cab has been from
single trailer and B-double operators who have overall
length constraints so we were limited to increasing the
cab by approximately 300mm,” he added.
The new extended cab was a joint development between
Volvo Truck Corporation and Volvo Trucks in Australia with
the Australian engineering team working with their
Swedish counterparts during an eight month program
to bring the new cab to production.
“Our engineers worked tirelessly turning the project from
a clean sheet of paper to a prototype in just eight months.
It really is a credit to them and the flexibility of our
organisation,” said Mr Cowell.
cab version of its renowned Globetrotter offering
better comfort and ergonomics as well as ensuring
According to Volvo Trucks National Manager Product
Strategy, Mr Ken Cowell, occupational health and safety
requirements over the last three to four years along with
the growth in the long haul segment and driver shortages
have driven the demand for a larger sleeping environment
to ensure improved rest periods for drivers.
As well as the 945 mm bunk
the extended cab also features
a larger locker storage area,
using a modular design
enabling the existing locker
doors and locks to be utilised.
Our engineers
worked tirelessly
The new extended cab is only 120kgs heavier than
the standard length cab and yet boasts a 23 percent
increase in overall cabin volume.
“While it might appear on the surface to
be an easy engineering task, lengthening a
cabin presents a lot of hidden challenges
including ensuring that the safety and
integrity of the new structure meets Volvo’s
demanding standards,” said Mr Cowell.
The new cab has been subjected to
computer simulated tests to verify that
it meets Volvo’s existing cab strength
requirements and to ensure it provides
the appropriate levels of safety and
structural integrity.
SNAPSHOT
MARRS MOVES QUEENSLAND
Here is a photo sent in by Phillip Stanbridge, of Marrs
Furniture Removals, which is of their 3 Volvo FM9’s
and 2 Volvo FM12’s at their depot in Nambour, QLD.
The Volvo FM12’s were bought solely for hauling
B-Doubles and Roadtrains and Volvo FM9’s haul
120m3 trailers for dry freight.
The trucks run all over QLD including the Northern
and Western towns.
We are looking for your best shot for our next issue. If we use your photo, we will send you a gift from our merchandise range. Send your photo with some information about it
and where it was taken, together with your name, address and phone number to: SNAPSHOT – Volvo Trucks, Locked Bag 10, Chullora NSW 2190.
11
NEWS
New Volvo FH Globetrotter XL Cab
Inside the extended cab - showing
increased space
While offering a bigger
sleeping area and driving
environment the new
extended cab does not
compromise access to the
engine and driveline
providing a full cabin tilt
angle of 68 degrees. It is
tilted via twin rams with an
electric cab tilt pump.
Added driver comfort comes from new side vents in the
cabin for better air flow in the sleeper, while the truck can
be specified with either one bunk or two.
The sleeper utilises the same new, more comfortable but
245mm wider pocket spring type mattress developed for
the recently released Volvo FH and Volvo FM.
This new Globetrotter XL cab is available for the Volvo FH
range in both the 6x4 and 8x4 configurations. Production
start for the new extended cab is mid April 2006.
FOUR NEW DEALERSHIPS FOR VOLVO TRUCKS
Four new dealerships have been announced by
Volvo Trucks bringing enhanced new and used
truck sales, parts and service into New South Wales,
Victoria and Queensland.
Volvo Commercial Vehicles – Coffs Harbour
became the new Volvo Trucks dealer in August 2005
taking advantage of an opportunity to consolidate with the
Mack operation and build the Volvo Parts and Service
business in the area.
In November 2005, CMV – one of Australia’s largest
automotive groups and presently Volvo Trucks’ dealer in
Melbourne and Adelaide – took over the Volvo Trucks
franchise for Gippsland from South Eastern Trucks. The new
dealership is called CMV Truck and Bus - Gippsland.
Queensland Truck Centre (QTC) has been appointed
as the new Volvo Trucks parts and service dealership in
Toowoomba, complimenting QTC’s well established Mack
parts and service dealership in the Darling Downs city.
Volvo Truck & Bus Brisbane will station a specialist Volvo
Trucks sales consultant in Toowoomba to handle Volvo
truck sales.
Volvo Commercial Vehicles - Rockhampton, has
taken over responsibility for Volvo Truck sales, service and
parts for the Rockhampton, Gympie and Bundaberg areas.
Visit www.volvotrucks.com.au for full details of all new
and existing Volvo Trucks dealerships.
12
NEWS
VOLVO TRUCKS ARE IDEAL
FOR NEW 26 METRE
B-DOUBLE LEGISLATION
Volvo is well prepared for the recent introduction of
26 metre B-double legislation to Australian roads
with the range of Volvo FH and Volvo FM prime
movers already able to take advantage of the rules
maximising advantages for operators and are available
for delivery now.
Volvo FH 520 with Wild Bar
As required by the new legislation, all Volvo cabs comply
with the ECER 29 Cab Strength Test and have Front
Underrun Protection (FUP) as standard. Volvo’s FUPS can
be further enhanced by adding Volvo Trucks’ Australian
designed “Wild Bar”.
This Wild Bar has a four point anchoring system, is strong,
easy to install and weighs only 57kgs. Operators who have
longed for Volvo’s comfort, safety and productivity can be
assured that the Volvo FH and Volvo FM range are able to
meet the challenge of the 26 metre B-double role.
Australia’s Transport Ministers unanimously approved the
legislation for 26 metre B-doubles and NTC chief
executive Tony Wilson welcomed the new legislation.
According to Volvo Trucks’ National Manager Product
Strategy, Ken Cowell the new regulations will bring better
efficiency for transport operators.
“Guidelines for approving cab strength and FUP system
standards were developed by the NTC in cooperation with
truck manufacturers,” said Mr Wilson
“It is a logical step for B-doubles in this country and we
have worked closely with the National Transport
Commission (NTC) to ensure safety and efficiency for
transport operators and all road users,” said Mr Cowell.
“This reform has been a genuine collaborative effort
between industry and government. I think it shows the way
for a successful outcome to the mutual benefit of all
parties,” he added.
OPERATOR PROFILES
CROSSING BORDERS
An extract and images from a story first published
in Powertorque Magazine
When Danny Matic landed in Perth he left behind a
country torn by war where reason was no longer part
of the equation of daily life. He arrived on a Saturday
morning, started work the following Monday and has
been hard at it ever since.
In the past twelve years, Danny has moved from truck
driver to truck fleet owner and he’s done it through hard,
consistent work and a commitment to providing the very top
level of customer service. Today he runs his fleet of Volvo
road trains under contract to Brambles Industrial Services
and there’s only one way to go and that is forwards.
After starting as a truck driver with Brambles, Danny took
the plunge to head into his own business once he had the
confidence to know what level of service to provide and
how to continually improve on that level. “My wife Katia and
I took a big risk when we sold our house to buy our first
truck. Every decision is made by the two of us,’ he added.
Matic Transport owns and operates seven late model
Volvos with a new flagship, the 610hp Volvo FH16
Globetrotter delivered in late 2005. Being based in Perth,
these are not just ordinary Volvo 6x4 prime movers. These
are something special.
Some of the fleet are 6x4 Volvo FH models used for single
trailer work but when you get to the tough stuff like hauling
three pressure bulk tankers of lime or cement on a round
trip of 4500km you want muscle. That muscle comes in the
form of 550hp or 610 hp Volvo FH16s in 8x4 or 8x6
configuration.
The fleet is 100 per cent Volvo and that is for the very
good reason that the local dealer Max Winkless Volvo
thinks about customer service along the same lines as
Danny Matic.
“We receive excellent service from Volvo. The service
department runs from 07.00am until midnight weekdays
and 07.00am until 05.00pm on weekends. My trucks come
back from a run and can use the express service lane at
the dealership without having to drop trailers. If we are
13
OPERATOR PROFILES
short of time the service department will put more service
guys on the job to get it finished faster. They always seem
to have the right parts and we are not left waiting for
something they can’t supply,’ said Danny.
When you see a Matic Transport Volvo truck heading
through Perth or on its way out to the mines at Telfer you
can be sure of one thing. It will be immaculately presented
and so will the driver.
“In Europe truck driving is a well respected profession,” said
Danny. “We need to always show our best efforts to the
public and our customers. That means clean, well
maintained trucks and smart looking drivers. Everyone
wears the right shirt and clothes with the company logo.”
With Max Winkless Volvo handling all the Matic Transport
maintenance requirements the dealership also keeps all the
service history records for the seven vehicles in the fleet.
Oil drain and grease requirements tend to be organised on
a fuel burn time span rather than a conventional kilometre
base. Oil sampling and a full ECU download is completed
each six months with greasing at 10,000 litre fuel burn
periods (approximately15,000km) and oil drain intervals
at 20,000 litres (approximately 30,000km).
“The Volvo FH16 550 runs at 130 tonnes hauling three
trailers and is returning fuel consumption figures of 1.3
km/l. That’s now better than the 500hp Volvo FH12 and
shows that the bigger motor brings better economies.
They don’t really start to loosen up and return their best
fuel economy until they’ve passed the 180,000-200,000km
period,” said Danny.
With the latest Volvo
FH16s using Volvo’s
610hp engine, peak power
is produced at 1600-1700
rpm with peak torque of
2800Nm rated at 11001500rpm. It’s an overhead
camshaft design with four
valves per cylinder and
centrally located, vertical unit injectors. The transmission is
Volvo’s synchromesh 12speed and the third axle is fitted
on the production line at Volvo’s Wacol factory. All axles
feature disc brakes with the front running on parabolic
leaf springs and the rear bogie drive with lazy third axle
running on air suspension. The cabin is fitted with Volvo’s
full front under-run protection system (FUPS) as standard.
We receive
excellent service
from Volvo
In a typical 12 month period each of the road trains
completes around 380,000km. Now with 825,000km
completed in two years, the engine top up between oil drain
intervals for the Volvo with the 550hp engine is still less
than four litres.
Danny Matic
Volvo FH 16 610
14
OPERATOR PROFILES
VOLVO FUEL MISER
An extract and images from Truckin’ Life Magazine’s
recent visit to major Victorian Fleet operator GTS
Freight in Mildura
When you round the corner into GTS Freight
Management’s street and see regimented rows of red
and white B-double trailers and shiny prime movers
parked in the yard, you realise this is not an ordinary
transport outfit, but a very professional operation.
Our impression of GTS intensifies when its
immaculately groomed managing director, Damien
Matthews, greets us with a firm handshake.
You can tell a lot from a person’s handshake and dress
code. GTS, the largest transport operator in Mildura,
employs 170 staff (120 of these are drivers), has 115
B-double sets (it only runs B-doubles) and 86 prime
movers. Unlike a lot of other operators, GTS has no trouble
finding drivers – the average age of drivers is the mid 40s.
The trailer sets are equally spread between Freighter
and Vawdrey. The prime mover armada consists of three
North American brands, plus a Volvo segment of 15
hybrid Volvo FH Cummins powered, nine Volvo FH12
500hp, three Volvo FH16 610hp and only recently two
Volvo FH16 550hp models, making a total of 29 Volvos
or 34 per cent of the fleet.
GTS was one of the first customers to own one of the
new Volvo FH16 610hp Globetrotters. We reviewed
the new model Volvo FH16 at its launch in our
September ’04 edition and our comment at the time was,
“Can Volvo’s new Viking warrior really threaten the hairychested Yanks in the multi trailer arena?” Our impression
of Volvo’s sweet 16 when we drove it at that time was
outstanding – in fact, it is arguably the best of the
European prime movers.
One of the most important questions to ask any truck
operator these days, be it a fleet or owner-driver is –
how’s the fuel economy?
15
OPERATOR PROFILES
1600/1700rpm – with corresponding torque
figures of 2500Nm and 2800Nm constant
from a low 950rpm to 1500rpm. The power is
well distributed with only a 100rpm gap (1500
– 1600rpm) from maximum torque to
maximum horsepower.
Damien Matthews
Damien Matthews’ reply is, “One of the Volvo 610hp
models returns 1.88km/litre and that’s by far the best
fuel economy figure we get from any of our linehaul
prime movers.” We then ask about the Volvo’s competitor
engines fuel economy. He replies that the B-double fleet
average is 1.7km/litre.
The GTS monthly fuel bill is $900,000 and with the Volvo
squeezing almost 12 per cent more kilometres per litre of
diesel used than the fleet average, you’d reckon GTS
would have to think seriously about adding more of these
fuel misers to the fleet.
Driver Impressions
We ask Volvo FH 610 driver Glen Wilson who has been
driving one of the Volvos for four months, clocking up
over 100,000km in that time, what he thinks of the truck.
The first question was how did he like the Volvo and
because he had previously driven North American prime
movers, would he prefer to go back to one of them?
Wilson says, “I love the Volvo and definitely no, I never
want to drive a North American truck again.”
He says you have to adjust your driving style to get the best
performance from the truck. “You don’t drive it by ear and at
high engine revs like you do in a North American truck.
“It’s best to operate the Volvo engine below 1500rpm and
make progressive early gearshifts.
“The cab is quiet and very comfortable – I really feel less
fatigued at the end of a days driving.”
What about the rough patches of bitumen on the Newell
Highway south of the Queensland border?
His jesting answer: “I thought they’d fixed all of them.”
Power and Economy
The Volvo 16-litre engine has two-piece, iron and
aluminium oil-spray pistons. It breathes through four valves
per-cylinder operated by an overhead camshaft, geardriven from the rear of the
engine, improving air- flow
cooling, in-cab noise levels
and reducing front axle tare
weight. It is turbocharged/
intercooled and offered in
two horsepower ratings –
550 (405kW) and 610
(449kW) developed at
The camshaft lobes are uniquely profiled
to operate the Volvo Engine Brake (VEB)
and when combined with the exhaust brake available
at 2200rpm, retards the truck at 515hp (380kW).
At the 1500rpm cruise speed it offers a rein-pull of 335
horses (250kW).
The Fleet
One of the Volvo
610hp models
returns 1.88km/litre
Damien Matthews
has his finger on the
pulse with costs to
the last cent on
running the business.
The fleet has been
operating on a full GPS MT Data tracking system for
12 months now, and he says there’s no way he would
ever operate without it again.
The fleet livery is a clean red and white design – the
trailers have alloy wheels, as do the prime movers, with
the addition of chrome hubcaps. Matthews says it’s hard
to keep up with washing the fleet by hand, but with its
new multi-million dollar, 10- acre terminal now being built
on the Benetook Road’s B-double town bypass, it will
have a drive-through wash bay facility. It will also have a
six-bay B-double workshop and storage sheds.
The existing terminal will remain as an undercover dry
storage yard and trailer parking area. The fleet travels
1.37 million kilometres each month and its prime movers
are replaced every four years.
The letters GTS come from Gol Gol Transport Service.
Gol Gol is the town near Mildura where the company
started. Damien says today it means (with tongue in
cheek) Great Transport Service.
We say because of their connection with the wine
industry it should mean Grape Transport Service.
Whichever, there is no doubt that GTS Freight
Management is a very successful transport company, built
from humble beginnings 30-odd years ago and carried
into the future with the aid of a family prodigy.
16
VOLVO ACTION SERVICE
VOLVO ACTION SERVICE
NOW ON CALL ACROSS
THE COUNTRY
Volvo truck owners in Australia are now
able to fully access the world’s best road side
assistance program for trucks – Volvo Action
Service (VAS).
VAS in action
VAS has been trialled in Australia over the past few years
and is now freely available to all Volvo truck owners.
The key to the effectiveness of VAS is the fact that unlike
other road side assistance programs, it is owned, operated
and controlled by Volvo Trucks. Most other assistance
programs are supplied by outside contractors, however
Volvo has made the decision to run its own program to
ensure that any problems encountered by Volvo truck
owners and operators can be sorted with the highest
priority and efficiency.
“With VAS we have a call centre staffed by trained
technicians who can analyse the problem and implement
a strategy to get the truck moving again.
“A Volvo Trucks’ service technician will be dispatched from
the closest dealer and will arrive fully prepared with all
necessary tools and parts to get the truck under way
again,” Kurt added.
The call centre has a follow up mechanism in place and
doesn’t close off on a case until it knows the truck is fixed
and back on the road.
Kurt Grossrieder, Volvo Trucks National Customer Support
Manager, has been the architect of VAS here in Australia
and says it is a totally seamless system designed to get the
truck moving again.
VAS customers also have the assurance that any repairs
are carried out by trained Volvo technicians using only
Volvo Genuine Parts.
“Any truck can get stranded by the road side, the key is
to get the truck back on the road as soon as possible.
All new Volvo trucks enjoy a complimentary 36 month
membership of VAS from the date of delivery which can
be extended for a membership fee at the end of that time.
“Too many times with road side assistance services the
driver calls the number, asks for help and once it is out of
the hands of the call centre, it can often take hours or days
before the problem is fixed and the truck is on its way
again,” said Grossrieder.
All Volvo trucks on Gold or Silver service contracts also
receive free membership while owners of older Volvo trucks
or any brand of truck can also join Volvo Action Service for
an annual membership fee.
The thrill of the Blow Karts
COMMUNITY & ENVIRONMENT
The drama the event……
AUSTRALIA WELCOMES THE VOLVO
OCEAN RACE TO MELBOURNE
Melbourne proved to be the perfect host for the Australian
stop over of the Volvo Round the World Ocean Race with the
city’s redeveloped docklands providing a welcome respite to
the wild weather and fast run across the Southern Ocean
from South Africa.
Sports mad Melbournians turned out in record numbers to
not only welcome the ocean racing fleet but to take part in
the myriad of activities dockside in the race stop over village
at Docklands.
ABN AMRO One along side after the in port race on 4 February
17
COMMUNITY & ENVIRONMENT
The current race started in Vigo in Spain in early
November 2005 and after covering more than 31,000
nautical miles is scheduled to finish in June this year at
Volvo’s hometown of Gothenburg, Sweden.
The Volvo Ocean Race’s slogan “Technology around the
World” really sums up Volvo Trucks and its rationale for
being a part of the epic ocean-racing classic.
The race first started in 1973 and is generally run every four
years. This year it is being contested by new boats known
as Volvo 70s. These seventy foot high technology ocean
racers have set new ocean racing records in the current
event with their combination of speed and light weight
You have been
memorable
Melbourne. Thanks.
While thousands of
Melbournians turned out to
see the yachts, Volvo Trucks’
customers were also able to
witness the excitement.
The VOR also hosted an
impressive display
showcasing every aspect of Volvo’s operations including
Volvo Trucks, Volvo Car, Volvo Bus, Volvo Construction
Equipment, Volvo Aero and Volvo Penta.
The exhibition in Melbourne was one of two complete
displays travelling the world with the VOR leapfrogging
between the major stopovers. While the Melbourne display
was packed and shipped on to the USA, the equipment
from the Capetown, South Africa stopover was shipped on
to Rio de Janeiro for the next major layover.
New Zealander Mike Sanderson, while his boat sported
a giant banner reading “You have been memorable
Melbourne. Thanks” as it sailed away from the docks.
Volvo Ocean Race Chief Executive Officer Glenn
Bourke rated the three-week Melbourne Stopover as
“the best-ever stopover of the Volvo
Ocean Race”.
Almost a thousand spectator boats
took advantage of perfect conditions
on Port Phillip Bay to watch the rest
of the race while thousands more
people lined the Melbourne and
Mornington Peninsula foreshores to
cheer on the teams.
The yachts were hauled out of the
water into cradles where they
underwent repairs and refurbishment
ahead of the next leg to Wellington in
New Zealand and on to Rio De
Janiero in Brasil. The Melbourne VOR
“pits” allowed members of the public
and VIPs alike to see the feverish
work being carried out on these
Formula Ones of the ocean.
After their warm reception in
Melbourne, the VOR competitors
were all too quickly heading out into
the blue water en route to
Wellington for a 24-hour pit stop
before the always feared rounding
of Cape Horn on the way to Rio in
the battle for the next leg.
The Melbourne Stop Over of the VOR took place from
January 17 to February12 and despite the plethora of
other entertainment being offered in Melbourne around
this time including the Australian Open tennis, one-day
cricket Internationals
and the lead into the
New Volvo FH split cab at the Volvo Trucks product display at the VOR Village
Commonwealth
Games the yachts
proved a strong
drawcard throughout
the time in port.
More than 335,000
people visited the
Waterfront City precinct
at Docklands during the
three-week stopover,
with leading skipper
Mike Sanderson
declaring it the
blueprint for future
stopovers.
“If you love sports and
great events then you
will love the city of
Melbourne,” said ABN
AMRO One’s skipper,
The Melbourne Wine & Food Festival
is under way in the Race Village
Melbourne school children enjoying the
Volvo Trucks display at the VOR Village
Crowds gather on the dock for the start
of leg 3 from Melbourne to Wellington
18
SAFETY
SAFETY THE KEY TO NEW VOLVO CAB
Better safety and a more comfortable and less
stressful environment were the main design criteria
for Larry Karlsson and his team who developed the
new Volvo FH and Volvo FM cabs.
“The aim of the in-cab changes was to improve safety,”
said Larry Karlsson.
The truck is the driver’s home on the road and that
thought guided Karlsson and the project team during
the development.
Their goal was always that the driver should be at his
peak when at work - refreshed, alert and enthusiastic.
With a new coil-spring mattress, an improved seat with
better side support, pastel colours, and subdued interior
lighting you may be forgiven for thinking the new truck
was being built for an entirely new target group. According
to Karlsson this is not the case at all.
“No, a real bed has long been on the wish-list of many
drivers, and we’ve made their dream a reality,” he said.
“Almost all the improvements in the cab have been made
to improve safety, a more comfortable bed or seat, for
instance, is often about much more than just pure comfort.”
“They improve the driver’s working environment and
makes them even better and more efficient drivers,”
explains Karlsson.
The development team was assisted by field testers –
drivers who volunteer to test the seats for several weeks
in their own trucks.
“The test drivers have to fill in a log and answer various
questions, but we are also naturally out on the roads testing
the various alternatives for ourselves,” said Karlsson.
Another new feature is
the interior red nightThe aim of the in-cab
light that the driver can
switch on when driving
changes was to
at night. The red glow
improve safety
does not interfere with
night vision, yet still
provides sufficient light
for the driver to be able to see inside the cab. It makes
for a great deal less stress in the cab at night.
New rear-view mirrors offer a larger field of vision with
carefully calculated angles so that close-quarter visibility
has also been improved,” Karlsson added.
One tiny new item illustrates that even the small things
come into play when designing a better safer driving
environment – the penholder!
“After testing an array of types and materials we finally
came up with a penholder that works. An item as small
as a pen holder can jeopardise safety if it doesn’t work
properly,” he added.
Facts: Improvements in the new cabs
• Brighter light in the
reading lamps.
• New light sources in both
the front and rear cabinets.
• More switches, DIN slots.
• New front shelf and the
option of an additional
switch panel.
• Integrated phone in FH
(optional in FM).
19
SAFETY
SAFETY CHECK FIRST – SAVE TIME LATER
There’s an old adage that if you fail to prepare you’ll be preparing to fail.
When it comes to operating a heavy vehicle that saying
is brought into sharp focus according to Volvo Trucks
driver trainer Per Hansen.
“You could say that a gram of protection is worth a kilo
of cure to borrow another old saying,” said Per.
Safety checks should be second nature to all truck
drivers and be a part of a regular ritual before
commencing any journey.
“All fluids including coolant, oil, washer fluid, power steering,
brake fluid and any other vital reservoirs should be checked
making sure that they are within limits,” says Per.
“Once this is done, start the engine, check all gauges,
turn on all lights and while the truck is building up air,
other external checks can be conducted,” he adds.
External Checks include:
• hydraulic, electrical and pneumatic connections
to the trailer,
• air hoses and brake lines,
• ABS connections,
• vehicle lights and lenses,
• tyres for inflation as well as condition of tyres and
wheels including tread depth, wheel nuts, sidewall
damage and rocks between dual tyres,
• load security ensuring
that everything is tied
down properly and that
it won’t become loose
on the road.
“The external checks
should take no more
than 5 minutes and by
this time the truck should have built
up air and ready to go,” said Per.
“Before moving off the driver should also do some
planning in the cab. A trip plan should be prepared
targeting meal and rest breaks. These can be flexible to
cater for any unforseen delays but will act as a guide for
the journey ahead,” he added.
He also emphasised the importance of making sure all of
the things a driver needs such as the wallet, sunglasses,
change for tolls, etc, are located within easy reach.
“The last check before moving off is to ensure that all the
brakes including the trailer brakes are operating properly.”
“All these checks will ensure that the driver enjoys a
smoother and less stressful journey and will reap the
benefits of preparation,” he added. As always, buckle up,
headlights on and happy motoring.
VOLVO RANGE
VOLVO FM 300, 340 & 380HP
VOLVO FH 16 550 & 610 HP
Metro and Regional
Intelligent Power
The Volvo FM with its 9 litre engine, is a compact truck
which has been developed for a range of local and regional
transport applications putting emphasis on productivity,
safety and driver comfort.
If you’re aiming for the stars, you need the power to get
there. The engine in the new Volvo FH16 is tailor-made
for the job.
With up to 610 bhp and an impressive torque across
the entire speed range, the Volvo D16C is one of the
most cutting-edge engines on the market today.
The Volvo FM provides greater scope for tailoring your truck
exactly to suit its operation. It can be delivered in a range
of models designed in detail to be ready for bodybuilding
or factory-ready for work from day one.
VOLVO FM 400,440 & 480HP
VOLVO FH 480 & 520 HP
Productive and Economical
Ideal for a B-Double
The Volvo FM has a new 13 litre engine and is designed to
offer customers reduced transportation costs and on-time
deliveries through low running costs, maximum uptime and an
outstanding driver’s environment.
The Volvo FH series is renowned for maximum
performance and efficiency and the new Volvo FH series
is no exception.
In the Volvo FM, the entire cab from floor to roof is designed
around the driver’s work-related needs, to make his job easier,
safer and more efficient - both while driving and at rest.
The new D13A engine gives you access to exceptionally
high performance even from low revs, and response and
acceleration characteristics are in a class of their own.
This coupled with the new I-Shift, reduced fuel
consumption and high driver efficiency, make the new
Volvo FH the ideal transport solution.
IP7491
VOLVO TRUCKS. DRIVING PROGESS
STATE
DEALERSHIP
CITY
TELEPHONE
NEW SOUTH WALES
Volvo Commercial Vehicles - Albury
Johnson’s Truck & Coach Services
Volvo Commercial Vehicles - Coffs Harbour
Hi Torque Truck Spares
James Frizelle’s Automotive Group
Trucksmart
Southern Trucks Pambula
Southern Trucks Centre
Volvo Truck & Bus
J T Fossey Sales
Wagga Motors
Volvo Commercial Vehicles - Wollongong
Albury
Buronga /Mildura
Coffs Harbour
Dubbo
Lismore
Newcastle
Pambula
Queanbeyan
Sydney (Chullora)
Tamworth
Wagga Wagga
Wollongong
(02) 6024 8000
(03) 5021 2346
(02) 6652 2453
(02) 6882 9922
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(02) 6495 6614
(02) 6299 6433
(02) 9036 8400
(02) 6762 2555
(02) 6925 3411
(02) 4272 9755
NORTHERN TERRITORY
Volvo Commercial Vehicles - Darwin
Darwin - Berrimah
(08) 8999 9200
QUEENSLAND
Volvo Truck & Bus Brisbane
Cairns Trucks & Tractors
Crokers Truck Centre
Isa Diesel & Earthmoving Repairs
Volvo Commercial Vehicles - Rockhampton
Queensland Truck Centre
Volvo Commercial Vehicles - Townsville
Transport Field Service
Brisbane (Richlands)
Cairns
Mackay
Mount Isa
Rockhampton
Toowoomba
Townsville - Bohle
Warwick
(07) 3710 3710
(07) 4044 4440
(07) 4952 4952
(07) 4743 5233
(07) 4927 4700
(07) 4630 1977
(07) 4774 5452
(07) 4661 3228
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
CMV Voltruck
Adelaide (Gepps Cross)
1800 627 718
TASMANIA
CJD Equipment
CJD Equipment
Hobart
(03) 6272 6851
Launceston (Prospect Vale) (03) 6343 2100
VICTORIA
Kirchner Trucks
CMV Truck & Bus
CMV Truck & Bus
CMV Truck & Bus - Gippsland
Horsham
Melbourne (Laverton)
Melbourne (Springvale)
Warragul
(03) 5382 6110
(03) 9931 6000
(03) 9582 6500
(03) 5623 4433
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Max Winkless
Max Winkless
Max Winkless
Max Winkless
Bunbury
Geraldton
Perth (Kewdale)
Perth (Spearwood)
(08) 9791 3555
(08) 9964 3886
(08) 9352 5252
(08) 9434 5022
Volvo Trucks
www.volvotrucks.com.au
General Enquiries 1800 986 586