The new Volvo Trucks VNX series, built specfically for heavy haul applications, is the latest step in Volvo’s revitalization of its North American product range. The new VNR series for regional haul and the new VNL series for long-haul operations were both introduced mid-2017.
“We’re excited to bring the new VNX to the heavy-haul market and we know that it will live up to the expectations of those doing heavy, hard jobs,” said Göran Nyberg, president of Volvo Trucks North America. “Volvo Trucks in part built its reputation as a global heavy duty leader by knowing how to deliver heavy loads in far less than ideal road and weather conditions.”
The VNX Series is available with up to 605 hp and 2,050 lb-ft of torque, and is built for heavy haul applications like logging, heavy equipment transport and long combinations vehicles.
Powertrain
The standard powertrain package for the new Volvo VNX is a Volvo D13 engine with 500 hp and 1,850 lb-ft of torque, paired with the 13- or 14-speed Volvo I-Shift with Crawler Gears automated manual transmission.
“The performance and reliability of the Volvo D13 engine has been proven through billions of miles and on jobsites all around the world,” said John Moore, Volvo Trucks North America product marketing manager – powertrain. “The Volvo D13 engine with 500 horsepower, 1,850 lb-ft of torque is a beast and the perfect pair with the Volvo I-Shift with Crawler Gears for serious heavy-haul jobs.”
Volvo’s new VNX series is also available with up to 605 horsepower and 2,050 lb-ft of torque, provided by the Cummins X15 Performance Series engine and paired with an Eaton Ultra Shift Plus or manual transmission.
Serviceability and support
The splash shield over the front wheel is now connected to the hood of the VNX models in an effort to give maintenance managers and technicians improved access to and view of the engine from both sides. This a feature shared with the recently revitalized VNL and VNR series. (See photos on Twitter: @VehicleSrvcPros)
Floor mats in the cab, which used to be bolted down under the seats, are now removable to allow ease of access for maintenance. This update gives technicians a 50 percent time savings, said Ash Makki, Volvo Trucks North America product marketing manager.
Besides physical improvements, Volvo also boasts connectivity and support to improve uptime for it's revitalized series.
All Volvo VNX models come standard with Volvo’s factory-installed connectivity hardware for access to Remote Diagnostics, which provides proactive diagnostics and monitoring of critical engine, transmission and aftertreatment trouble codes. The same hardware also allows customers to perform software and parameter updates over-the-air with Remote Programming, which helps improve uptime and vehicle efficiency, while reducing downtime costs.
Support for Volvo trucks is provided by Volvo Action Service (VAS), a team available around the clock at Volvo’s Uptime Center in Greensboro, NC. VAS agents monitor critical vehicle codes and "go beyond" diagnostic technology to deliver actionable solutions. If an issue is detected, VAS agents will assess the severity and provide the vehicle’s designated contact with actionable information to determine whether to keep operating the truck or take it for immediate service. All details from the service process are captured and tracked through ASIST, Volvo’s online service management and communication platform. This gives the driver, customer contact and dealer real-time visibility to case status, repair scheduling, and parts and service bay availability. Remote Programming updates are also facilitated by VAS agents.
Configurations and heavy haul components
The new Volvo VNX series is available in three cab configurations. The VNX 300 daycab provides muscle and maneuverability for local heavy-haul applications. The VNX 400 flat-roof regional sleeper is built for occasional overnights. The new VNX 740 features a 70-inch sleeper and all of Volvo’s latest interior enhancements for heavy hauls over long distances.
Approved Gross Combination Weight Ratings (GCWR) span from 125,000 to 160,000 lbs. Ratings of up to 225,000 lbs are available with application approval and appropriate components. Optional steer axles, lift axles, tridem drive axles, and longer fifth-wheel slides help meet a diverse range of weight distribution requirements.
“The new VNX is the ultimate blend of Volvo’s modern, aerodynamic design and pure purpose-built performance,” said Chris Stadler, Volvo Trucks North America product marketing manager – regional haul. “From end-to-end, every feature of the VNX is built to stand up to any heavy-haul job you throw at it. Improvements are easy to see throughout the VNX including the bumper, axles, suspensions, braking, powertrain, and more.”
The trucks are available in 6x4 tandem, 8x4 tandem, and 8x6 tridem configurations. Front axle ratings range from 16,000 to 20,000 lbs with parabolic springs. The VNX is available with up to 445 tires to match front axle load capacity. Available rear axles range from 46,000 to 55,000 lbs and the premium rear heavy-haul suspension ranges up to 52,000 lbs.
Dual steering gears provide maneuverability while under a heavy load. The imposing VNX provides an increased ride height to accommodate more articulation and front ramp angle, while the VNX bumper features a heavy-duty tow pin and center tow frame that equalizes forces to the chassis.
Safety
The VNX series cab is built with high-strength steel and exceeds both the Volvo Swedish Cab Safety Test and ECE R-29 rollover requirements. The industry’s only standard driver’s side airbag is now joined by an integrated, seat-mounted rollover airbag on the driver’s side.
Volvo Enhanced Stability Technology (VEST), an electronic stability control system, is standard on all Volvo VNX models. By continually monitoring operating parameters, VEST detects imminent loss of control, jackknife, or rollover events. The system automatically reduces engine torque and selectively applies braking to help the driver keep the truck on course
The Volvo VNX series is equipped with automotive-quality LED headlights that produce abundant bright light to improve visibility. Automatic lighting and rain-sensing wipers are also available to improve safety.
Interior
“The new VNX is a heavy-haul work tool for demanding jobs, and it gives professional drivers a comfortable working environment for performing at their best,” Stadler said. “The workspace was designed for maximum comfort and productivity, while the sleeper was designed to offer drivers a calm, restful space for their hours off the road.”
The dashboard on the VNX has been optimized to reduce distraction by displaying the critical information a professional driver needs at a quick glance and by grouping frequently used controls within easy reach. A configurable, five-inch color driver information display with improved graphics works with steering wheel-mounted controls providing key operating information, as well as the ability to choose your preferred diagnostic data.
A dash-top tray with multiple USB and 12V connections provides a safe, convenient home for a driver’s many gadgets, which can also be linked to the optional in-dash infotainment system. Always in view, the instrument cluster’s clean, symmetrical layout and diffused, light-green backlighting makes it easy to read, reducing eyestrain and fatigue.
