Volvo introduces new heavy-haul tractor

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Updated Mar 27, 2013

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Volvo Trucks unveiled its new entry to the heavy-haul tractor market at the Mid-America Trucking Show Thursday, rolling out the Volvo VNX, a high-performance model designed for extreme gross weight applications.

The truck’s integrated powertrain features the newly introduced D16 engine with 600 horsepower, 2,050 lb.- ft. torque and I-Shift automated manual transmission and was developed for applications up to 225,000 pounds.

Volvo’s 16-liter D16 engine is the company’s most powerful North American engine.
Available in 6×4 and 8×4 configurations, the Volvo VNX offers a range of heavy-haul components to ensure it’s properly spec’d for the job.

Front axle ratings range from 16,000 to 20,000 pounds with parabolic springs. The VNX is available with 385 wide- base, 425 and 445 tires to match front axle load capacity. Available rear axles range from 46,000 to 52,000 pounds in regular, dual-track and wide-track tandem configurations are available. Dual steering gears and a 20,000-pound steerable pusher axle are also available as options.

Cosmetically, the VNX features a distinct metallic, honeycomb- patterned grille and brightfinish steel bumper with center tow pin. A brightfinish steel moose bumper with center tow pin is also available.

The VNX utilizes Volvo’s full-size daycab and the company’s standard safety features.
The truck also comes standard with Volvo’s Remote Diagnistics.
Demonstrator models will be available early summer, and customers can begin placing orders fall of 2013.

Jason Cannon has written about trucking and transportation for more than a decade and serves as Chief Editor of Commercial Carrier Journal. A Class A CDL holder, Jason is a graduate of the Porsche Sport Driving School, an honorary Duckmaster at The Peabody in Memphis, Tennessee, and a purple belt in Brazilian jiu jitsu. Reach him at [email protected]