Volvo Trucks recently announced a selection of new features that increase its vehicles’ precision and improve handling on bumpy or slippery roads. “Thanks to several smart updates of the I-Shift gearbox, we have managed to make a range of new functions available that improve driveability, safety, and comfort,” says Volvo Trucks Heavy Duty Transmission Manager Pär Bergstrand. “Each is designed to give the driver greater control and ease of operation when manoeuvring.”
Terrain Brake
When driving at low speeds over rough or uneven ground, drivers braking with a wheel positioned on the edge of an elevated surfaces may not be able to stop the vehicle in time. Terrain Brake doesn’t wait for the driver to apply the brakes; instead the Volvo Truck will apply the brakes as soon as the driver releases the accelerator and the truck will hold its position without rolling over the edge of the elevated surface.
“The Terrain Brake is ideal for off-road conditions like construction sites, mines, or uneven roads, but it can also be useful for manoeuvring in cities and navigating over speed bumps and street curbs,” says Bergstrand. “Regardless of the situation, it will give the driver much greater agility and control, making the job safer and easier.”
Terrain Brake is an option on Volvo FH16 and other models with a driven front axle.
Change Direction
Change Direction is another solution designed for better manoeuvrability at slower speeds, such as when drivers are reversing into a loading dock or turning in a small space. Typically, turning or reversing in these confined spaces requires short, sharp movements and quickly switching between the brake and accelerator pedals. With Change Direction, drivers just switch into reverse while moving forward, and the Volvo truck will automatically ease the vehicle to a standstill and then start moving in reverse. To move forward, the driver switches into a forward gear. Change Direction is available on the Volvo FH, FM, and FMX.
Active Grip Control
If the Volvo truck starts to skid, the active sensors found on Volvo’s heavy-duty trucks with an electric driveline will allow the Active Grip Control system to react to the road surface and help the driver stay on the road. Volvo says that Active Grip Control is able to significantly improve stability and acceleration in slippery road conditions. New features on Active Grip Control can reduce the risk of jackknifing and oversteering when the truck is unloaded.
Find The Right Volvo Truck
You’ll find hundreds of new and used Volvo trucks for sale on Truck Locator, including big selections of FH, FM, and FMX tractors and rigids.
Source: Volvo