VOLVO FM440 Trucks For Sale

When the Volvo FM 440 hit our streets back in 2008, the economy had just begun its nose-dive. It could be argued that no one feels this more acutely than the haulage industry. Whatever is sold has to get to the customers and if it is not selling, then that means it is not being transported. No wonder then that our industry was among the first to feel the pangs of the current downturn. When you add the rocketing price of diesel, it begins to look something like the perfect storm and clearly truck manufacturers had to respond.

Volvo was one of the first and most innovative of the big manufacturers to grab the economic bull by the horns. The mpg figure quickly became one of the first that many operators would look for when considering a new truck purchase and improved aerodynamics in the form of skirting, close-fit trailers, wind deflectors and bulbous cab noses all made increasing appearances. These physical improvements could not do the job on their own, though and they were soon joined by a combination of mechanical and electrical features to help ramp up the mileage figures.

Volvo Ecoroll

Volvo already had standard features such as the excellent I-Shift gear change, cruise control and engine brake to keep things as economical as possible, but to this line-up they added Ecoroll. This feature is simple in theory but impressive in its effect. It simply disconnects the drive when the truck doesn't need to accelerate or slow down, letting the huge momentum of the 40-tonner do the job of carrying the truck forward. It works in train with those other features to provide some truly outstanding fuel-consumption figures.

The Volvo FM 440, as you might expect for a frugal wagon, is mostly sold in basic fleet spec but that is no bad thing as controls are sensibly laid out in a simple, clean cab environment. The truck does its mileage trick without any fancy suspension set-up, with just the usual steel springs at the front and air bags at the rear on this 4x2. Stabilisers and shockers enhance the ride on the front steering axle. Disc brakes are present all round, aided by the venerable Volvo Engine Brake. The electronically controlled service brakes feature hill-hold and brake-assist programs to give a reassuring and powerful retardation capability.

Power Options

Under the cab, the D13A engine beats mightily away. This Euro 5 turbocharged and intercooled unit produces its maximum 440hp between 1,400 and 1,800rpm and gives out 2,200Nm of torque between 1,050 and 1,400rpm. There are ample horses to satisfy the 10hp per tonne rule and the power plant also contributes to the driver's day by being exceptionally smooth and quiet, even when prodded quite aggressively. The range features 9, 11 or 13 litre options, with power outputs ranging from 300 to 480hp.

The Volvo FM 440 may have been made for the economic conditions prevailing back in 2008, but there is no doubt that operating conditions remain challenging. This makes the Volvo FM 440 with Ecoroll just as sensible a used purchase in 2013 as it was new in 2008.